This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is a showstopper, perfect for family dinners and gatherings. With layers of savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a delightful cheese filling, it’s a dish that everyone will love. The blend of flavors and textures makes it stand out, while the ease of preparation ensures you can whip it up on any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and marinara creates a mouthwatering taste that is hard to resist.
- Cheesy Goodness: With three types of cheese involved, this dish offers a creamy and satisfying texture in every bite.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Perfect for Sharing: It serves eight people easily, making it great for family meals or potlucks.
- Customizable: You can adjust ingredients like spice levels or add vegetables to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- 9×13 baking dish
- Tongs or large spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling spaghetti; it allows plenty of room for the pasta to move freely.
- Skillet: Perfect for browning sausage and sautéing onions and garlic together for enhanced flavor.
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!
For the Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
For the Sauce and Meat Mixture
- 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
For the Cheese Layer
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 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
Seasoning
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F and move the rack to the top third of the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, add the cheese layer ingredients:
1. Combine softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano.
2. Stir until you have a smooth mixture. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Cook spaghetti for 2 minutes less than package directions suggest.
- Once cooked, drain and return to the pot.
Step 4: Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add Italian sausage and chopped onion.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes until browned, breaking up meat as it cooks.
Step 5: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes:
1. Cook for one minute until fragrant.
2. Spoon out any excess fat from the pan.
Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Add sausage mixture to pasta in the pot:
1. Pour in marinara sauce.
2. Toss everything together until well coated using tongs or two large spoons.
Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish
In a 9×13 baking dish:
1. Spread half of the pasta/sauce mixture evenly on the bottom.
Step 8: Add Cheese Layer
Spread your prepared cheese layer over the pasta/sauce layer:
– This doesn’t have to be perfect; just spread evenly as best as you can.
Step 9: Finish Layering
Top with remaining pasta/sauce mixture:
– Spread evenly before topping with mozzarella cheese.
Step 10: Bake
Cover with foil:
1. Bake for 30 minutes at 375°F.
2. Remove foil and broil for a few minutes until bubbly and browned—watch carefully!
Step 11: Serve
Let sit for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into portions with a spatula:
– Season with salt & pepper if needed.
Enjoy serving this delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a deliciously rich dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style meal. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy seconds!
With Garlic Bread
- Pair it with crispy garlic bread for a delightful contrast. The crunchy texture complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
Salad Accompaniment
- A fresh green salad adds brightness to the plate. Consider a simple Caesar or mixed greens with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the spaghetti.
Wine Pairing
- Serve it with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. The acidity in the wine cuts through the richness of the cheese and sausage.
Leftovers for Lunch
- Pack leftovers in individual containers for an easy lunch option. Just reheat and enjoy this comforting dish on the go!
Kid-Friendly Serving
- For kids, consider serving smaller portions alongside some steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal that they will love.
How to Perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti
For those looking to make their Million Dollar Spaghetti even more delicious, here are some tips to ensure perfection.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheese will enhance the flavors significantly.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Cooking spaghetti just shy of al dente ensures it holds up well when baked.
- Layer thoughtfully: Make sure to evenly distribute the cheese mixture for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add more spices or herbs according to your taste preferences for additional flavor depth.
Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Spaghetti
To complement your Million Dollar Spaghetti, consider these delightful side dishes that will round out your meal beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with buttery garlic spread is an unbeatable accompaniment.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing and croutons adds crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide great color and nutrition.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element without overpowering flavors.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables makes an appetizing starter.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can be a delightful finger food alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Million Dollar Spaghetti can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
Ignoring the Pasta Cooking Time: Cooking spaghetti for too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and cook it al dente.
Skipping the Cheese Layer Mixing: If you skip mixing the cheese layer well, you may end up with uneven filling. Take your time to create a smooth mixture.
Not Draining Excess Fat: Leaving excess fat in the skillet from the sausage can make the dish greasy. Always spoon out any extra fat before combining with pasta.
Overloading on Sauce: While sauce is key, using too much can make the dish watery. Stick to the recommended amount for a balanced flavor.
Neglecting Broiling Time: Broiling adds that beautiful golden crust. Don’t forget this step; just watch carefully to avoid burning!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Should be consumed within 3-5 days for best quality.
Freezing Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or sauce in a pan over medium heat, stirring until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a baked spaghetti dish featuring Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese filling. It offers a delicious twist on traditional spaghetti.
Can I customize Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or swap out the meat for ground turkey or beef based on your preference.
How do I prevent my Million Dollar Spaghetti from being dry?
Ensure you use enough marinara sauce and consider adding more cheese if desired. This will keep the dish moist and flavorful.
How do I serve Million Dollar Spaghetti?
This recipe serves well as a main course. Pair it with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone!
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Spaghetti is an irresistible dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its cheesy goodness combined with hearty sausage makes it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients for a truly personal touch!
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a crowd-pleasing baked pasta dish that combines savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses. This easy-to-make recipe creates a hearty meal perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. With its layers of flavor and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. The best part? Preparation is simple, allowing you to whip up this delicious casserole in no time.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 (24 ounce) jars marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 medium onion
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, ricotta, parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano until smooth.
- Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, brown Italian sausage with chopped onion until cooked through. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine the sausage mixture with cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce; mix well.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture, then spread the cheese layer on top, followed by the remaining spaghetti mixture and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes; remove foil and broil for a few minutes until bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 275g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
