Million Dollar Spaghetti
This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is a showstopper that combines savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese filling, all baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table. This dish stands out not just for its flavors but also for its comforting layers of pasta and cheese that make it a winning choice any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor-packed: The combination of Italian sausage and three types of cheese creates an irresistible taste.
- Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish even on a busy weeknight.
- Perfect for gatherings: Serve it at parties or potlucks, and enjoy compliments from your guests!
- Great for leftovers: This baked spaghetti reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Customizable: Feel free to add veggies or switch up the cheeses according to your preference.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Million Dollar Spaghetti, gather the essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smoother.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Large pot
- 9×13 baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs or large spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Perfect for browning the sausage and sautéing onions and garlic, which builds flavor.
- Large pot: Necessary for boiling spaghetti to achieve the perfect texture before baking.
- 9×13 baking dish: Ideal size for layering your ingredients and ensuring even cooking.
- Mixing bowl: Helps in combining the cheese filling smoothly without mess.
Ingredients
This million dollar spaghetti recipe has tons of Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and an irresistible cheese filling. It’s then topped with even more cheese and baked to golden perfection!
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
- 1 pound Italian sausage (see note)
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block Philly) (softened)
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375F and move the rack to the top third of the oven.
Step 2: Prepare Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl, add the cheese layer ingredients:
1. Combine cream cheese, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
2. Stir them together until you’ve got a nice, smooth mixture. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook Spaghetti
Boil a large, salted pot of water for the pasta:
1. Cook spaghetti for two minutes less than package directions suggest.
2. Once done, drain it and return it to the same pot.
Step 4: Cook Sausage Mixture
In a skillet:
1. Add Italian sausage meat along with chopped onion.
2. Cook over medium-high heat for about ten minutes or until browned and cooked through.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Seasoning
To the skillet:
1. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
2. Cook for about one minute.
3. Spoon out excess fat from the pan.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add skillet mixture to the pot with spaghetti:
1. Pour in marinara sauce.
2. Toss until everything is coated (this is easiest using tongs or two large spoons).
Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish
In a greased 9×13 baking dish:
1. Add half of the pasta/sauce mixture evenly as a base layer.
Step 8: Spread Cheese Layer
Spread the prepared cheese layer evenly over the pasta/sauce layer:
1. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just ensure it’s covered well.
Step 9: Finish with Pasta/Sauce Mixture
Top with remaining pasta/sauce mixture:
1. Spread it out evenly over the cheese layer.
Step 10: Add Mozzarella Cheese
Top casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese evenly.
Step 11: Bake
Cover with foil:
1. Bake for thirty minutes.
2. Remove foil and broil until bubbly and browned (watch carefully).
Step 12: Serve
Let sit for five to ten minutes before cutting into portions:
1. Use a spatula to cut into squares; adjust seasoning with salt & pepper if needed.
Now you’re ready to savor this delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti
Serving Million Dollar Spaghetti is as delightful as making it. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, and there are many ways to enhance the experience.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- A warm, buttery garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the spaghetti nicely.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the hearty pasta and adds freshness to your meal.
Top with Fresh Basil
- Garnishing with fresh basil gives a burst of color and enhances the Italian flavor profile of the dish.
Serve with Extra Marinara
- Offering extra marinara sauce on the side allows guests to add more moisture and flavor as desired.
Include Parmesan Cheese
- Provide freshly grated Parmesan cheese for those who want an extra cheesy touch on their serving.
Enjoy with Wine
- Pairing this dish with a glass of red wine can elevate your dining experience and complement the flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti
To ensure that your Million Dollar Spaghetti turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.
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Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality Italian sausage and fresh cheeses will significantly enhance the flavor.
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta for two minutes less than package directions ensures it holds up well during baking.
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Mix Thoroughly: When combining pasta with sauce, use tongs or large spoons to ensure everything is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
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Layer Properly: Layering the cheese mixture correctly can add a delicious creaminess throughout your casserole.
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Broil Carefully: Keep an eye on your casserole while broiling to avoid burning the cheese. You want it golden brown, not charred.
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Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit before serving helps it set, making it easier to cut into neat portions.
Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with various sides that can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing adds crunch and freshness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a colorful and healthy side that complements the richness of spaghetti.
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Caprese Skewers: These skewers with fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing bite that pairs well with pasta dishes.
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Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini brings a smoky flavor that balances out the cheesy spaghetti.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make for an elegant appetizer or side dish.
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Focaccia Bread: Soft focaccia bread drizzled with olive oil is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
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Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter featuring meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies offers variety and richness alongside your dish.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A chilled coleslaw adds a crisp texture and tanginess that contrasts nicely with baked spaghetti’s warmth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Million Dollar Spaghetti can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can detract from the dish’s appeal. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Cheese Layer: Many people forget the cheese filling. This layer adds creaminess and richness, so don’t skip it!
- Overcooking the Spaghetti: Cooking the pasta too long leads to mushy spaghetti. Aim for al dente texture since it will cook more while baking.
- Not Draining Excess Fat: Leaving excess fat from the sausage can make the dish greasy. Always spoon out any extra fat before combining ingredients.
- Using Low-Quality Marinara Sauce: The sauce is crucial for flavor. Choose a high-quality marinara sauce for a richer taste.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland spaghetti. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti in an airtight container.
- It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Freezing Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It freezes well for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Million Dollar Spaghetti that may help enhance your cooking experience.
What makes Million Dollar Spaghetti special?
Million Dollar Spaghetti stands out due to its unique combination of creamy cheeses, savory Italian sausage, and flavorful marinara sauce, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings.
Can I customize Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms or substitute different meats like ground beef or turkey based on your preference.
How do I ensure my Million Dollar Spaghetti is not dry?
To prevent dryness, use plenty of sauce and cheese layers. Also, let it sit after baking; this helps retain moisture.
Can I use gluten-free pasta for Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Yes! Gluten-free spaghetti works well in this recipe. Just follow package instructions for cooking times.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its cheesy layers and rich flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it uniquely yours. Try this amazing recipe today!
Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that brings together flavorful Italian sausage, luscious marinara sauce, and a creamy trio of cheeses. Baked to golden perfection, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings, promising to impress everyone at your table. With its rich layers of pasta and cheese, it’s not just a meal but an experience of warmth and satisfaction. Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers, Million Dollar Spaghetti can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile choice for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 jars (24 oz each) marinara sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 8 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (1 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook spaghetti in salted water for two minutes less than package directions; drain.
- In a skillet, brown Italian sausage with onion until cooked through. Add garlic and sauté for one more minute.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, ricotta, parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano until smooth.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with marinara sauce and sausage mixture in a pot; toss well.
- Layer half the spaghetti mixture in a greased baking dish. Spread cheese layer on top and finish with remaining spaghetti mixture.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes; uncover and broil until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
