Welcome to the world of delicious, heartwarming meals! Today, we’re going to explore the recipe for “Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole”, a dish that brings together the comfort of spaghetti and the richness of a creamy, cheesy bake. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
1 lb spaghetti noodles
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
8 oz cream cheese
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly.
- Cook Spaghetti: Follow the package instructions to cook the spaghetti noodles. Once done, drain and set them aside.
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is thoroughly browned. Remember to drain any excess fat for a healthier dish.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and half of the Parmesan cheese. This mixture is what gives our casserole its “million-dollar” taste.
- Layer Your Casserole: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by the cream cheese mixture, then the meat sauce, and finally, a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers once more to use up all the ingredients.
- Final Touch: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
Related:
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 480 kcal per serving
- Servings: 8
Serving and Storage Tips for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Serving Tips:
- Let it Rest: Once out of the oven, let your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows it to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Garnish for Extra Flair: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness.
- Accompany with Sides: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. The lightness of a salad or the crispiness of the bread complements the rich and creamy casserole beautifully.
- Perfect Temperature: Serve the casserole warm to ensure the cheese is melty and the flavors are at their peak.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerating Leftovers: If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature. Then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing for Later Use: This casserole can be frozen, either whole or in portions. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, you can reheat the casserole in the oven. If it’s frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F until thoroughly warmed through. For individual servings, a microwave will do the trick, heating for a few minutes until hot.
Note on Freezing: If you plan to freeze the casserole, consider undercooking the spaghetti slightly during the initial preparation. This prevents the noodles from becoming too soft when you reheat the casserole.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is just as delicious when reheated as it is fresh from the oven. Enjoy your meal now and later!
FAQs
1. Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just cover it tightly and bake it the next day. Remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold.
2. What can I substitute for ground beef in the recipe?
Ground beef can be substituted with a variety of options. Ground turkey or chicken are great for a lighter version. For a vegetarian twist, try using a plant-based ground meat substitute, or you can use sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, meat-free alternative.
3. How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is done when it’s bubbly around the edges and golden brown on top. The cheese should be fully melted and slightly crispy. This usually takes about 30 minutes, but ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it towards the end of baking.
4. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, you can use different pasta types. Shorter pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli can work well in this recipe. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions before assembling the casserole.
Conclusion:
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together to create a dish that’s truly unforgettable. With its creamy, cheesy layers and hearty meat sauce, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table. Enjoy the richness in every bite!
