If you’re looking for a dish that combines all the flavors of your favorite spaghetti dinner into one decadent casserole, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is it! Loaded with ground beef, creamy sauce, gooey cheese, and spaghetti noodles, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole takes the comforting elements of spaghetti and meatballs and elevates them into a cheesy, baked masterpiece. The layers of pasta, meat, and sauce are topped with a generous helping of melty cheese, making every bite indulgent and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with extra veggies, different cheeses, or even swap out the protein for a vegetarian version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion , finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup water (or beef broth for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole:
- 8 oz cooked spaghetti (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg , lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese , divided
- Optional: 1 cup diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition
Topping:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef for a healthier result.
- Stir in the onion and garlic , cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Add the marinara sauce , water , basil , oregano , salt , and pepper . Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes , stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti , ricotta cheese , egg , and Parmesan cheese . Mix well to create a creamy pasta mixture.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Pour half of the meat sauce over the pasta layer, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining pasta mixture, followed by the rest of the meat sauce, and finishing with the last 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 3: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25 minutes , then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot alongside garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
- Customize the Cheese : While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or even feta for a tangy twist.
- Add Vegetables : Stir in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added color, nutrients, and flavor.
- Make Ahead : Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when ready. Simply increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes if starting from cold.
- Freeze for Later : Portion out leftovers and freeze them for quick reheating on busy nights.
- Go Veggie : Swap the ground beef for crumbled tofu or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is pure comfort food magic. Its rich layers of pasta, meat, and cheese make it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need a warm, satisfying meal. So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy this cheesy, saucy delight!
If you loved this recipe, explore more comforting casseroles and pasta dishes on our website. From lasagnas to shepherd’s pies, we’ve got everything you need to keep your meals cozy and delicious. Happy cooking! 🍴✨
