Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole combines the best of both worlds—layers of creamy, cheesy pasta with rich meat sauce creating a dish that's worth every penny of its name. The combination of three different cheeses creates an irresistible gooey center that elevates simple spaghetti into something truly extraordinary.

When I first made this for my family reunion, it disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. My uncle actually returned to the empty casserole dish with a spoon to scrape up the last bits of cheese from the corners.

Ingredients

• Ground beef creates the hearty foundation. Choose 85/15 for the best balance of flavor and leanness.
• Spaghetti sauce from a jar makes this recipe weeknight friendly. Select a high quality brand with no added sugar for best results.
• Cream cheese provides that signature creamy texture. Let it soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Sour cream adds tanginess that balances the richness. Full fat works best for creamiest results.
• Cottage cheese creates pockets of melty goodness throughout. Small curd blends more smoothly than large curd.
• Butter between layers prevents sticking and adds incredible richness. Salted or unsalted both work well.
• Spaghetti noodles form the backbone of this dish. Cook them slightly firmer than usual as they'll continue cooking in the oven.
• Cheddar cheese forms the golden brown top layer. Freshly grated melts more evenly than pre shredded.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pasta

Boil the spaghetti in generously salted water until just al dente, about 2 minutes less than package directions indicate. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so slightly undercooking prevents mushiness. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse—the starch helps the sauce cling better.

Create the cheese mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth and well incorporated. This creates the decadent middle layer that gives this casserole its million dollar name. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps.

Prepare the meat sauce

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole. Return to heat and stir in the entire jar of spaghetti sauce, allowing the flavors to combine for about 5 minutes.

Begin assembly

Cut several thin slices from your stick of butter and arrange them on the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. This creates a delicious buttery base and prevents sticking. Spread half the cooked spaghetti evenly across the bottom of the dish.

Add the cheese layer

Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the first layer of pasta. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even layer that reaches all corners. This middle layer is what makes this dish truly special.

Complete the pasta layers

Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese mixture, then dot with additional thin slices of butter. The butter melts into the pasta during baking, creating incredible richness throughout.

Top with meat sauce

Pour the meat sauce evenly over the entire casserole, making sure to cover all the pasta. Use a spatula to spread it to the edges, creating a sealed layer that will keep the cheese mixture moist during baking.

Bake in stages

Place the uncovered casserole in your preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes until bubbling around the edges. Then remove, sprinkle generously with grated cheddar cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and beginning to brown at the edges.

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The cream cheese mixture is truly what sets this dish apart from regular spaghetti casseroles. My grandmother used to make something similar, but the addition of cottage cheese was my own twist. I remember the first time I served this to her, she immediately asked for the recipe and declared it even better than her original version.

Make Ahead Magic

This casserole can be fully assembled up to a day ahead and refrigerated before baking. If you're preparing it in advance, take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then add an extra 10 minutes to the initial baking time. The convenience factor makes this perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Freezer Friendly Options

After assembly but before baking, this casserole freezes exceptionally well. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. For smaller households, consider making the full recipe but dividing it between two smaller baking dishes, freezing one for later use.

Perfect Pairings

This rich casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides that provide contrast. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing cuts through the richness perfectly. Garlic bread is also a classic accompaniment, though some might find the combination too carb heavy. For a lighter option, roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini make excellent partners to balance the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute cottage cheese in the dish?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta cheese for a creamier texture or Greek yogurt for a lighter option while maintaining flavor.

→ What type of ground meat works best?

Ground beef is traditional, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes for variation.

→ How do I prevent the dish from drying out?

Make sure to layer the sauce generously over the noodles to keep them moist during baking. Cover with foil if needed.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add extra cook time if chilled.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole in airtight containers for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best results.