Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: million dollar spaghetti casserole! This is the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, like a cozy blanket on a chilly night. Picture this: layers of tender spaghetti, savory ground beef, and creamy ricotta all baked together with gooey, melted cheese on top. It’s a dish that brings the whole family together, and trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a gathering. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so you can focus on what really matters—enjoying time with your loved ones. Let’s dive into how to make this incredible casserole!
Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this million dollar spaghetti casserole, and I promise you, it’s worth every bit of effort! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound spaghetti: This is the base of our dish, so make sure to cook it al dente to hold up well in the casserole.
- 1 pound ground beef: You can use lean beef for a healthier option, but any ground beef will work beautifully here.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Choose your favorite brand—homemade or store-bought, it all adds that delicious tomato flavor.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese adds that lovely richness to our casserole. Don’t skimp on it!
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: This is what makes everything ooey-gooey and delicious! Trust me, more cheese is always better.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this on top adds a nice salty kick and a golden finish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This gives a subtle sweetness that balances out the dish perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your preference; it makes a world of difference!
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating something truly special! Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, preheating is super important for achieving that perfect bubbly cheese on top. You don’t want to rush this step—let the oven do its thing while you prep the other ingredients!
Cook the Spaghetti
Now, let’s cook the spaghetti! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add your spaghetti. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, we want it to hold its shape in the casserole! Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside. Don’t rinse it; we want those starchy bits to help the sauce cling later.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
While the spaghetti is cooking, grab a skillet and brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, and once it’s nice and browned, drain any excess fat. Next, stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let those flavors meld together. Oh, it smells so good!
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix it all together until it’s well combined. Now, it’s layering time! In your baking dish, spread half of the spaghetti mixture, then layer on the meat sauce, and top it with the remaining spaghetti mixture. Finish it off by sprinkling the rest of the mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese on top. It’s starting to look amazing!
Baking Instructions
Pop the casserole in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Just imagine that cheesy goodness melting together! Once it’s ready, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve, plus it gives those flavors a moment to settle. Enjoy every cheesy, comforting bite!
Tips for Success with Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
To ensure your million dollar spaghetti casserole turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips to share! First, don’t overcook the spaghetti; remember, it will continue to cook in the oven! Also, taste your meat sauce before layering; adjusting the seasonings can really elevate the flavors. If you want extra creaminess, consider mixing in a bit more ricotta or even some cream cheese! And here’s a little secret: let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes after baking before you slice into it. This helps everything settle and makes for cleaner servings. Finally, feel free to sprinkle some fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Trust me, your family will thank you!
Variations of Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
If you want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun variations for million dollar spaghetti casserole! For a lighter twist, try swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or even shredded chicken. It’s just as delicious and a tad healthier! You can also sneak in some veggies—chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would work beautifully. Just sauté them a bit before adding to the sauce. Feeling adventurous? How about adding some Italian sausage for an extra kick of flavor? And don’t forget about the cheese—feel free to experiment with different types like pepper jack or gouda for a unique taste! The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Nutritional Information for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
When it comes to enjoying a comforting meal like million dollar spaghetti casserole, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving, which is based on 1/8 of the casserole:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you choose. But no matter how you slice it, this casserole is packed with hearty goodness that the whole family will love!
FAQ About Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making this casserole ahead of time is a great idea, especially for busy weeknights. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to take it out about 30 minutes before you pop it in the oven so it can come to room temperature. If you’re short on time, you can also prepare the meat sauce and cook the spaghetti in advance, then combine everything when you’re ready to bake!
Can I freeze million dollar spaghetti casserole?
Yes, you can definitely freeze this delicious casserole! To do so, I recommend assembling it in a freezer-safe dish, covering it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and then placing it in the freezer. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-45 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. You can also bake it straight from frozen, but it will take a bit longer—around 60-70 minutes. Just keep an eye on that cheesy goodness!
What can I serve with million dollar spaghetti casserole?
This casserole is a meal all on its own, but if you want to round out your dinner, there are some fantastic sides to consider! A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect for adding a fresh crunch. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are also amazing for soaking up any extra sauce. And if you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, roasted vegetables or a classic Caesar salad would complement the flavors beautifully. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with these pairings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This million dollar spaghetti casserole is truly a winner in every way! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for it:
- Quick and Easy: With just a little prep and about 50 minutes from start to finish, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a hearty meal on the table with minimal fuss!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist this cheesy, comforting dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together around the table, and I guarantee there won’t be any leftovers!
- Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates a symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug. Every bite is packed with rich, satisfying goodness that you’ll crave again and again.
Equipment Needed for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Having the right tools on hand makes whipping up this million dollar spaghetti casserole a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need:
Baking Dish
You’ll want a 9×13-inch baking dish for this recipe. A glass or ceramic dish works wonderfully as it holds heat well and allows you to see that beautiful, bubbly cheese as it cooks. If you have a non-stick option, even better! It’ll make serving a cinch.
Skillet
A large skillet is essential for browning the ground beef. I recommend using a heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel, as they distribute heat evenly. This way, you get perfectly browned meat without any uneven spots. Plus, it’s durable and can handle high heat without a problem!
Mixing Bowl
Make sure you have a large mixing bowl for combining all those delicious ingredients! A big bowl is key to giving everything a good stir without making a mess. You’ll be mixing the spaghetti, ricotta, and mozzarella in there, so the more space, the better! Trust me, it’ll make your life way easier.
Imprimer
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: 7 Comforting Layers
- Temps Total: 50 minutes
- Rendement: 8 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A comforting and hearty million dollar spaghetti casserole perfect for family dinners.
Ingrédients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked spaghetti with ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture, followed by the meat sauce, then the remaining spaghetti mixture.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 35 minutes
- Catégorie: Casserole
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 450
- Sucre: 6g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 20g
- Graisses Saturées: 10g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 50g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 25g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 50mg
Mots-clés: million dollar spaghetti casserole, spaghetti casserole, baked spaghetti
