The aroma of bubbling cheese, zesty marinara, and perfectly cooked spaghetti wafts through the air, igniting a craving that’s hard to resist. sweet dessert option Million Dollar Spaghetti is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. For more inspiration, check out this caramel coconut cookies recipe.
Picture this: the first bite reveals layers of gooey cheese melting into a rich tomato sauce enveloping al dente spaghetti. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even impressing that special someone without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Just wait until you hear the compliments!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is simple enough to whip up on a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests
- The delightful blend of flavors creates a comforting experience everyone will crave
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, and you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients
- Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
I still remember the first time I made Million Dollar Spaghetti for my friends. Their expressions were priceless as they savored every single bite! For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Choose high-quality pasta; it really makes a difference in texture and flavor.
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for less grease but don’t shy away from flavor!
- Marinara Sauce: Opt for your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce—either works wonders.
- Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy richness that elevates the dish to “million-dollar” status.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Always use shredded mozzarella for that stretchy, gooey finish.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan on top adds an extra layer of umami flavor.
- Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano and basil gives depth to the sauce.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the delicious flavors you’re about to create.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. quick and delicious pizza recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat before adding marinara sauce.
Add Flavor: Stir in dried Italian herbs along with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
Combine Cream Cheese: In a bowl, soften cream cheese using a microwave if needed; then stir it into your meat sauce mixture until smooth and well incorporated.
Layer It Up: In a 9×13 baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti at the bottom. Spread half of the meat sauce over it, then sprinkle with half of both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Layer on remaining spaghetti followed by more meat sauce and top with remaining cheeses. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
With each step taken carefully, you’ll end up with an irresistible Million Dollar Spaghetti that’s sure to wow anyone who takes a bite! Enjoy this hearty meal with loved ones or save some for yourself (not judging here!). hearty casserole for family dinners.
You Must Know
- Million Dollar Spaghetti is not just a dish; it’s an experience that leaves your kitchen smelling heavenly
- The combination of creamy cheese and savory sauce creates a comforting embrace for your taste buds, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly cooked Million Dollar Spaghetti, start by boiling your pasta while preparing the sauce concurrently. This multitasking ensures your meal comes together seamlessly, optimizing flavors and textures.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize Million Dollar Spaghetti with different cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Personal touches elevate the dish and make it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture and warmth throughout.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged
- Avoid overcooking your pasta; al dente adds great texture
- Lastly, let the dish sit covered for 10 minutes before serving to enhance its flavors
Making Million Dollar Spaghetti always brings back memories of laughter-filled dinners with friends who couldn’t get enough of this cheesy delight. savory cheesy empanadas.
FAQ
Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container.
What type of pasta works best?
Spaghetti is traditional, but any pasta shape you enjoy will work well.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Skip the meat and add extra veggies or mushrooms for flavor and texture.
Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Million Dollar Spaghetti, a comforting dish that combines gooey cheese, savory ground beef, and zesty marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is simple yet impressive. With its vibrant layers and mouthwatering aroma, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil the spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and add marinara sauce.
- Stir in dried herbs, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Soften cream cheese in microwave if needed, then mix into the meat sauce until smooth.
- Layer half of the spaghetti in a baking dish. Top with half the meat sauce and half of both cheeses. Repeat layers.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Customize with different cheeses or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. For richer flavor, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; add water when reheating to maintain moisture.
