There are some meals that effortlessly bring a smile to everyone’s face, and in our home, that meal is always pasta. My husband, James, is completely won over by anything cheesy. Our daughter, Ariya, delights in twirling long strands of spaghetti on her fork until it forms a tower almost as tall as she is. And our youngest, Cameron, simply revels in grabbing handfuls of noodles, giggling with pure joy as he stuffs them into his mouth. It’s moments like these that make our Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole an instant and enduring family favorite.
This exquisite dish masterfully blends everything we cherish about a classic spaghetti night with the heartwarming comfort of a baked casserole. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience layered with rich, savory meat sauce, an irresistibly creamy cheese filling, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked together until it’s golden, bubbly, and utterly inviting. The best part? This incredibly satisfying casserole is designed to feed a crowd, making it the ideal solution for anything from a busy weeknight dinner to a lively gathering with friends and family. With this recipe, there’s always plenty to go around, ensuring every plate is full and every belly happy.
Unveiling the “Million Dollar” Secret: What Makes This Spaghetti Casserole So Special?
Imagine the best elements of spaghetti and lasagna harmoniously combined into one sensational baked dish. That’s precisely what our Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole offers. Unlike traditional spaghetti served simply with sauce, this recipe transforms it into a magnificent, layered creation within a baking dish. At its heart lies perfectly cooked spaghetti, generously coated in a robust, flavorful sauce. This is then exquisitely layered with a decadent, creamy cheese filling—a secret weapon crafted from the perfect marriage of ricotta and softened cream cheese. Finally, it’s crowned with a rich, savory beef sauce and a generous blanket of bubbling mozzarella. The result is a casserole that bakes to golden perfection, each slice holding together beautifully like a lasagna, yet delivering the unmistakable, comforting taste of spaghetti.
The “million dollar” moniker isn’t just a catchy name; it perfectly encapsulates the indulgent and profoundly comforting experience this dish provides. It’s the kind of meal that feels luxurious and special enough to grace your holiday table, a celebratory Sunday dinner, or any occasion where you want to impress and delight your guests without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen. It’s truly a standout, offering a gourmet feel with homemade simplicity.
Why This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Will Become Your Go-To Recipe
- Achieves Layered Perfection in Every Forkful: This casserole is thoughtfully designed with distinct layers that ensure every single bite is perfectly balanced. You’ll experience the tender chew of pasta, the savory richness of the meat sauce, and the irresistible creaminess of the cheese filling, preventing any bland or monotonous mouthfuls.
- Remarkably Budget-Friendly: Crafted primarily from affordable pantry staples, this recipe ingeniously stretches just one pound of ground beef into a substantial and satisfying casserole that feeds a large family or group. It’s a smart choice for delicious meals without a hefty grocery bill.
- Unanimously Family-Approved: This dish is a proven hit with even the pickiest eaters. My kids adore it, James consistently asks for generous second helpings, and the flavors are universally loved. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making leftovers a delightful prospect for lunch the next day.
- A True Crowd-Pleaser for Any Event: Whether you’re hosting a casual potluck, a festive party, or a large family dinner, this casserole is guaranteed to be a star. Its impressive presentation and comforting flavors make it an instant favorite that disappears quickly.
- Conveniently Make-Ahead Friendly: For those with busy schedules, this recipe is a lifesaver. You can easily assemble the entire casserole up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, simply pop it in the oven for a stress-free meal.
Decoding the Ingredients: What Each Component Brings to the Table
Every ingredient in this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole plays a crucial role in creating its iconic flavor and texture:
- Spaghetti: Forms the essential foundation of the casserole, providing that classic pasta texture and binding all the delicious layers together. While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to experiment with other long pasta shapes like linguine or bucatini for a slightly different experience.
- Pasta Sauce: This provides the crucial moisture and rich tomato flavor that permeates every layer. Using good quality store-bought marinara or a homemade sauce will significantly impact the overall taste.
- Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing the aromatic vegetables, it adds a subtle richness and helps to build the foundational flavors of the meat sauce.
- Onion & Garlic: These kitchen staples are the cornerstone of any great Italian-inspired dish. They create a fragrant and deeply savory base that elevates the entire meat sauce.
- Ground Beef: Adds hearty protein and a robust, satisfying texture to the casserole. This is a versatile ingredient that can be easily swapped for other ground meats like Italian sausage (for a spicier kick), ground turkey, or ground chicken for a lighter alternative.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of classic herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, this seasoning ties all the savory elements together, infusing the meat sauce with authentic Italian aroma and taste.
- Ricotta & Cream Cheese: This dynamic duo is the true “million dollar” secret! Ricotta offers a delicate, milky texture, while cream cheese contributes an unparalleled richness and tang, creating that distinctively creamy, melt-in-your-mouth layer that sets this casserole apart.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Generously sprinkled throughout and on top, mozzarella melts into gooey, stretchy perfection, creating that irresistible, golden, bubbly crust that everyone craves.
- Fresh Parsley: An optional but highly recommended garnish, fresh chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the rich flavors of the casserole.
When and How to Serve Your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
The versatility of this casserole makes it suitable for almost any occasion:
- Effortless Weeknight Dinners: After a long day, you want a meal that is both substantial and easy. This casserole is hearty enough to satisfy the whole family and provides delicious leftovers for quick lunches the following day, reducing food prep stress.
- Elegant Holidays or Sunday Dinners: Its layered beauty and rich flavors make it a show-stopping centerpiece for holiday feasts or special Sunday gatherings. It feels indulgent and impressive, yet it’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
- Perfect for Potlucks and Social Gatherings: If you need a dish that travels well, reheats like a dream, and is guaranteed to be a hit, this spaghetti casserole is your answer. Its robust structure means it holds up beautifully during transport and serving, and it’s always the first to disappear from the table.
To round out the meal, I love serving this casserole with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, which provides a fresh contrast to the rich pasta. And of course, no spaghetti night is complete without garlic bread – that’s Ariya’s go-to side. James, ever the connoisseur, often requests a classic Caesar salad. Cameron, bless his heart, just wants more of that amazing pasta!
Maximizing Convenience: Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can fully assemble the casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the directions, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
- Fridge Storage: If you have any glorious leftovers (a rare occurrence in our house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat wonderfully in the microwave or oven.
- Freezer: For longer storage, this casserole freezes beautifully. Once completely cooled, you can wrap individual portions or the entire casserole tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake in the oven until heated through and bubbly, usually around 30-45 minutes at 350°F (175°C), covered for the first half to prevent drying out.
Why You’ll Absolutely Adore This Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
- Beloved Classic Flavors: This dish delivers comforting, familiar flavors that resonate with almost everyone, making it a guaranteed family favorite.
- Streamlined Preparation and Baking: Despite its impressive appearance, the recipe is designed for ease, with straightforward steps that make prep and baking simple and enjoyable.
- Effortlessly Feeds a Crowd: Whether you have unexpected guests or are hosting a party, this generous casserole ensures everyone gets a satisfying portion without requiring multiple dishes.
- Versatile Main Course or Holiday Star: It’s hearty enough for a regular weeknight meal yet special enough to be a standout dish at any holiday gathering.
- Indulgent Comfort Food, Made Simple: Experience the rich, decadent feeling of gourmet comfort food without complicated techniques or exotic ingredients. It’s truly a million-dollar taste, made easy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Can I use different meats in Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the traditional choice, this casserole is incredibly adaptable. For an extra layer of flavor and a slightly different profile, try using Italian sausage (sweet or hot, depending on your preference). Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes if you’re looking for a lighter version of the dish. If opting for lean meats like turkey, consider adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of chicken broth to the sauce to ensure the casserole remains moist and flavorful during baking.
What’s the best cheese to use for the ultimate gooey experience?
For that quintessential gooey, stretchy, and utterly irresistible texture, mozzarella is the undisputed champion. It melts beautifully, creating those satisfying strings of cheese with every spoonful. The combination of ricotta and cream cheese is what forms our signature creamy “million dollar” layer, adding richness and depth. Beyond these, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses to enhance the flavor. Provolone adds a sharper, saltier note, Parmesan provides a nutty, savory depth, and even a touch of sharp cheddar can introduce a delightful tang. For the smoothest melt, I always recommend grating a block of fresh mozzarella yourself, as pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can hinder a truly even and creamy melt.
Do I need to cook the pasta before baking the casserole?
Yes, cooking the pasta to al dente before assembling the casserole is crucial. The baking time for this casserole is not long enough to fully cook dry pasta, and attempting to use uncooked spaghetti would result in a dish with an uneven, unpleasantly crunchy texture. After cooking, ensure you drain the spaghetti very thoroughly. Excess water clinging to the noodles can lead to a watery casserole, diluting its rich flavors.
Can I assemble Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time for convenience?
Without a doubt! This casserole is an excellent candidate for make-ahead meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil and store it in your refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you can transfer it directly from the fridge to a preheated oven. Just be mindful that it might require an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly, given its colder starting temperature. This makes it a perfect, stress-free option for busy weeknights or holiday entertaining.
Is this the same as a traditional baked spaghetti?
While similar in concept, Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole distinguishes itself from a typical baked spaghetti. Traditional baked spaghetti recipes often involve mixing cooked pasta directly with sauce and a single layer of cheese before baking. Our “Million Dollar” version elevates this concept with its signature creamy cheese layer, a luxurious blend of ricotta and cream cheese. This special layer is the secret to its richer, more indulgent flavor and smoother texture, bringing it closer to the decadent experience of a lasagna, but with the beloved simplicity of spaghetti.
How do I make this casserole even creamier?
The inherent creaminess of this casserole comes primarily from the delightful ricotta and cream cheese mixture. If you desire an extra level of velvety texture, you can increase the amount of cream cheese by a few ounces (up to 12 oz total) or even stir in a small amount of heavy cream into the cheese mixture. However, the most important tip is never to skip or skimp on that creamy cheese layer—it truly is the heart of the “million dollar” flavor and texture!
Can I add a spicy kick to my casserole?
Absolutely! For those who love a bit of heat, incorporating spice is an excellent idea. You can add red pepper flakes directly into the meat sauce while it simmers, use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef, or even mix in finely diced jalapeños for a fresh, vibrant heat. For a fun serving twist, offer a drizzle of hot honey or a side of spicy marinara sauce at the table.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, a delicious vegetarian Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is entirely achievable. Simply omit the ground beef and instead sauté an assortment of vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, bell peppers, and even eggplant are fantastic additions. A robust marinara sauce forms a perfect base for a meatless version, absorbing all the wonderful veggie flavors.
How can I prevent the casserole from becoming too runny?
To ensure your casserole isn’t watery, meticulous draining of your cooked spaghetti is key. Give it a good shake in the colander to remove as much excess water as possible. Also, avoid using overly thin or watery pasta sauces. During the initial baking phase, covering the dish with foil helps to lock in steam and cook the layers evenly. Towards the end, removing the foil allows the top to brown beautifully while any excess liquid can evaporate, resulting in a perfectly textured casserole.
Can I freeze leftovers of this spaghetti casserole?
This recipe freezes exceptionally well, making it ideal for meal prepping or saving for a quick future meal. Once the casserole has completely cooled, portion it into individual airtight containers or wrap larger sections tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven until warmed through and bubbly, or simply microwave smaller portions.
How many people does this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole typically serve?
This generous recipe is designed to serve approximately 6-8 people. If you have particularly hearty eaters (like James after a long day at work!), you might find it closer to 6 servings. However, when accompanied by delicious sides like garlic bread and a fresh salad, it can comfortably stretch to feed 8 guests.
Is this casserole suitable for children?
Absolutely! The mild, comforting flavors of this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole make it a huge hit with kids. Ariya loves to get involved by helping sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top, and Cameron enjoys his cut into small, toddler-friendly bites. It’s a fantastic way to ensure even picky eaters enjoy a wholesome and delicious meal.
Perfect Meal Pairings: Complement Your Casserole with Delicious Sides and a Sweet Finish
When I present this magnificent Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, I love to complete the dining experience with a selection of cozy, crowd-pleasing sides and a show-stopping dessert that truly brings the meal to a memorable close. Here are my top recommendations for a complete and satisfying spread:
Garlic Parmesan Bread
This isn’t just any garlic bread; it’s a crispy, buttery masterpiece infused with rich Parmesan and fragrant garlic. It’s the kind of side dish that earns rave reviews from everyone at the table and is absolutely perfect for soaking up every last bit of that luscious meat sauce. James, without fail, always manages to sneak an extra piece before dinner is even fully served.
Homemade Garlic Knots
There’s an undeniable magic in warm, pillowy garlic knots, freshly baked and generously brushed with a vibrant garlic-parsley butter. They elevate the meal, making it feel extra special and indulgent. Ariya particularly enjoys helping to twist the dough, and their soft texture and savory flavor are the perfect counterpoint to the baked spaghetti.
Pull-Apart Dinner Rolls
Soft, buttery, and incredibly fluffy, these dinner rolls are always a guaranteed hit at any gathering. They’re effortlessly shareable, ideal for sopping up any remaining sauce, and transform a simple dinner into a truly festive occasion.
Cornbread Salad
For a refreshing and delightful contrast, consider adding a vibrant cornbread salad to your menu. Its unique blend of crunchy textures and tangy flavors beautifully cuts through the rich, cheesy elements of the casserole, offering a wonderful balance.
Turtle Lush
And for the grand finale, dessert! Turtle Lush is a truly dreamy, layered confection featuring rich chocolate, luscious caramel, crunchy pecans, and a creamy, light base. It’s the ultimate sweet ending after a hearty, cheesy dinner—Cameron proudly declares it the absolute best part of the entire meal.
The Ultimate Dish for Holidays & Potlucks: Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Our Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole embodies the very essence of comfort food, making it far more than just a typical weeknight meal. While it’s a stellar choice for a cozy Sunday dinner, its true brilliance shines during the holiday season. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or even Easter, this impressive casserole can easily feed a large crowd and stands as a magnificent, flavorful alternative or complement to traditional turkey or ham. Its hearty and satisfying nature ensures every guest leaves feeling content.
Beyond formal holidays, this dish is perfectly suited for potlucks and casual family gatherings. Its ability to be assembled in advance means less stress on the day of the event, and its robust structure allows for easy transport in the baking dish. It reheats beautifully, so you can prepare it ahead of time and warm it up at your destination. I’ve personally witnessed this casserole vanish from potluck tables faster than appetizers! The inviting layers of golden cheese and pasta are a feast for the eyes, and when sliced, reveal a cross-section of pure deliciousness. And perhaps the best secret of all: if by some miracle there are any leftovers, they are often even more flavorful the next day, making future meals a breeze.
Endless Possibilities: Creative Variations & Substitutions
One of the joys of cooking is adapting recipes to suit your taste and what you have on hand. This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is incredibly versatile:
- Swap Your Protein: Instead of ground beef, try zesty Italian sausage for an extra layer of flavor, or opt for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter touch.
- Cheese Alternatives: If ricotta isn’t your preference, cottage cheese makes a good substitute, offering a similar creamy texture. For the top layer, explore provolone for a sharper taste, cheddar for a familiar tang, or even fontina for a richer, nuttier melt.
- Boost Your Veggies: Easily incorporate more nutrition by adding a layer of fresh spinach, sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or finely chopped bell peppers to the meat sauce or cheese layer.
- Spice It Up: Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a subtle warmth, or a more generous amount for a noticeable kick.
- Herbal Infusion: Experiment with different fresh or dried herbs. Beyond Italian seasoning, a touch of fresh basil or oregano can brighten the flavors.
Clever Leftover Ideas: Giving Your Casserole a Second Life
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, don’t just reheat them—transform them! Here are some creative ways to enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole again:
- Spaghetti Casserole Muffins: Scoop portions of the leftover casserole into greased muffin tins, top with a little extra cheese, and bake until heated through and golden. Perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick snacks.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Halve and deseed bell peppers, then fill them generously with the leftover spaghetti casserole mixture. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Hearty Pasta Bake Soup: Stir leftover casserole into a simmering pot of vegetable or beef broth. You can add extra diced tomatoes, spinach, or cannellini beans for a more substantial and comforting pasta soup.
Budget Breakdown: Smart Eating Without Sacrificing Flavor
This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole proves that incredible flavor and hearty meals don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Here’s a rough cost estimate for this crowd-pleasing dish:
- Spaghetti: ~$2.00
- Pasta sauce: ~$5.00
- Onion & garlic: ~$1.50
- Ground beef: ~$5.00
- Cheese (ricotta, cream cheese, mozzarella): ~$8.00
- Seasonings & garnish: ~$1.50
Estimated Total: ~$23.00 for 6 generous servings, which breaks down to approximately $3.80 per serving! An amazing value for such a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Lighten Up Your Casserole: Healthier Alternatives
For those looking to enjoy this comforting dish with a lighter touch, here are some simple adjustments that reduce calories and fat without sacrificing flavor:
- Opt for Leaner Protein: Swap ground beef for extra-lean ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives significantly reduce the fat content while still providing satisfying protein.
- Choose Reduced-Fat Dairy: Select reduced-fat ricotta and cream cheese. Many brands offer lower-fat versions that maintain much of the creaminess and flavor.
- Use Part-Skim Mozzarella: Instead of full-fat mozzarella, choose part-skim mozzarella cheese. It still melts beautifully but contains less fat.
- Incorporate More Vegetables: Bulk up your casserole with extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. This adds volume, fiber, and nutrients while keeping calories lower.
- Control Portions: Simply serving smaller, more mindful portions is an effective way to manage calorie intake while still enjoying the rich flavors of the casserole.
Reader Favorite Tips and Ideas: Enhancing Your Spaghetti Casserole
Over the years, our wonderful community of home cooks has shared their ingenious tips and creative modifications for this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. Here are some of their top suggestions:
- Sneak in Extra Veggies: Many readers swear by adding a generous layer of fresh spinach or finely chopped kale to the cheese mixture or meat sauce. It’s an effortless way to boost nutritional value and add a touch of freshness without altering the core flavor.
- Amp Up the Heat: For those who appreciate a fiery kick, a common suggestion is to incorporate a teaspoon or two of red pepper flakes into the simmering meat sauce. Some even swap out half the ground beef for spicy Italian sausage.
- Crunchy Topping: A few adventurous cooks enjoy topping their casserole with a sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs (Panko is a popular choice) during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This creates a delightful crispy, golden crust that adds a textural contrast to the soft, cheesy interior.
- Herbaceous Boost: Incorporating fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the meat sauce or sprinkling them over the top before baking can add an extra layer of aromatic complexity.
Troubleshooting Tips for a Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Even experienced cooks encounter minor hiccups. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:
- Casserole is too watery? The most common culprit is over-sauced pasta or insufficiently drained spaghetti. Ensure you drain your spaghetti exceptionally well after cooking. You can even let it sit in the colander for a few extra minutes. Also, be mindful not to add too much additional liquid to your meat sauce.
- Cheese not melting evenly or becoming greasy? This often happens with pre-shredded cheese due to anti-caking agents. For the best melt, always opt for grating fresh mozzarella from a block. Its natural moisture content ensures a smoother, creamier, and more even melt.
- Edges are burning while the center is still cooking? Try covering the casserole with foil for a longer portion of the baking time, especially if your oven runs hot. Alternatively, move the baking dish to a lower oven rack, which provides more indirect heat to the bottom and sides.
- Casserole doesn’t hold together when slicing? Patience is key! Like lasagna, this casserole needs time to set. Allow it to rest for at least 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven before attempting to slice and serve. This allows the cheeses and sauces to firm up slightly, creating clean, defined slices.
My Personal Kitchen Notes: The Heart Behind the Recipe
In our home, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole holds a truly special place. James, with his playful sense of humor, affectionately calls it “the lasagna that’s not lasagna.” Ariya, ever the eager helper, loves to assist in sprinkling the mozzarella on top—and I’ve definitely caught her sneaking a few handfuls when she thinks I’m not looking! Cameron, our youngest, simply lights up, clapping with unbridled excitement the moment he sees the pan emerge from the oven. For me, this recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients; it’s a feeling. It evokes that cozy, comforting nostalgia of Sunday dinners from my childhood, yet it’s wonderfully practical and easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. It’s a dish that genuinely brings joy and warmth to our family table, time and time again.
My Final Thoughts: Why This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is a Must-Try
This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole (Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Recipe) truly encompasses everything I adore about classic comfort food: it’s incredibly simple to prepare, wonderfully hearty, impressively budget-friendly, and absolutely bursting with flavor. It’s a versatile dish you can effortlessly make ahead of time for stress-free entertaining, bake for special company, or serve on even the busiest of weeknights. No matter the occasion, you can rest assured that everyone at your table—from James and Ariya to Cameron, and any cherished guests—will leave feeling completely full, utterly satisfied, and genuinely happy. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that consistently delivers warmth, flavor, and smiles.
More Delicious Pasta Recipes to Explore
- Bang Bang Shrimp Pasta!
- Rasta Pasta
- Old Fashioned Goulash
- Philly Cheesesteak Pasta
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Course: Main Course
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 55 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Servings: 6 servings
If you love spaghetti, you absolutely must try this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. It’s a hearty and incredibly filling comfort food, generously loaded with a rich meaty sauce, tender pasta, a creamy blend of cream cheese, and plenty of shredded mozzarella, all baked together into one irresistible casserole.
Ingredients
- 16 oz. dried spaghetti
- 2 x 24 oz. jars pasta sauce, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, peeled and diced
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and finely diced or minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 8 oz. ricotta cheese
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Cook the dried spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly, then mix the cooked spaghetti with one jar of the pasta sauce. Set this mixture aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook, breaking up any lumps with the back of a spoon, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the Italian seasoning and the remaining jar of pasta sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then remove it from the heat.
- Prepare the creamy cheese mixture: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, and 1½ cups of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined and smooth. Set aside.
- To assemble the casserole: Spread ½ cup of the prepared meat sauce evenly over the base of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Follow with half of the spaghetti mixture, spreading it out to form an even layer. Spoon the creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti layer and gently spread it out.
- Next, layer half of the remaining meat sauce over the cheese mixture. Top this with the remaining spaghetti, then finish with the remaining meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly. Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period helps the layers set, making for cleaner portions. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
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