Dinner

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

ByGabriel Langdon November 2, 2025November 2, 2025

Introduction

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a rich and comforting baked pasta dish that combines hearty ground beef with creamy cheeses and marinara sauce. This layered casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings when you want something delicious and easy to prepare.

A close-up image of a slice of lasagna featuring multiple layers with rich colors and textures. The bottom layer is a slightly crispy, golden pasta base, topped with a thick layer of creamy white cheese sauce. Above that is a rich, chunky meat sauce with a deep red color mixed with tomato pieces and herbs, followed by another layer of pasta. The top layer is browned melted cheese, golden brown with herbs scattered across the surface, and a few browned bits giving a baked look. On the side of the white plate are two roasted cherry tomatoes with a shiny, slightly wrinkled skin, and a small sprig of fresh green herbs rests on top of the lasagna. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups marinara sauce
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Spread a layer of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the meat sauce. Spread the cheese mixture on top of the spaghetti layer.
Step 7: Add the remaining spaghetti over the cheese mixture, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
Step 8: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
Step 9: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Step 10: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it set.
Step 11: Serve warm, ideally with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole.
For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms and additional vegetables.
Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
Letting the casserole rest before serving will make slicing easier and keep the layers intact.

Storage

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warmed oven until heated through. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A thick slice of lasagna sits on a white plate, showing multiple layers of soft pasta sheets filled with creamy cheese and rich, chunky meat sauce with small bits of herbs mixed in. On top, the browned cheese is melted and bubbly with some crispy edges, and a few fresh green herb leaves are placed near the center for decoration. Two roasted cherry tomatoes with glossy, slightly wrinkled skins rest on the plate beside the lasagna. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it as directed when ready to serve.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti cooked al dente is traditional, but you can also use other long pasta like linguine or fettuccine if preferred.

Gabriel Langdon