Description

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to please a crowd, look no further than Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. This indulgent recipe combines rich layers of creamy cheese, savory ground beef, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, topped with melted cheddar cheese for a deliciously satisfying meal. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this irresistible dish!

Ingredients

1 lb of ground beef
1 jar of spaghetti sauce
8 oz of cream cheese
¼ cup sour cream
½ lb cottage cheese (equals 1 cup)
½ cup butter (1 stick)
1 pkg spaghetti (16 oz)
Grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti noodles in salted water until al dente (firm). Drain the noodles and set aside until you’re ready to assemble the casserole.
Mix the Cheeses: In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese. Mix until well blended and smooth.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and combine the beef with your spaghetti sauce. Mix well.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the Noodles: Place a few slices of butter in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti noodles over the butter.
- Add the Cheese Mixture: Pour the cream cheese mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Noodles: Add the remaining spaghetti noodles on top of the cream cheese layer. Dot with a few more slices of butter.
- Add the Meat Sauce: Pour the spaghetti and meat sauce mixture over the top of the noodles, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Casserole: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, sprinkle the desired amount of grated cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Serving Tips:

Serve Hot: For the best flavor and texture, serve the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole hot from the oven. The melted cheese and creamy layers are most enjoyable when the casserole is warm.
Garnish: Enhance the presentation and flavor by garnishing with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. A sprinkle of extra grated cheese or a few cracks of black pepper can also add a nice touch.
Pair with Sides: This casserole pairs beautifully with a mixed green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. These sides complement the rich and hearty casserole, creating a well-rounded meal.
Cut into Portions: To make serving easier, let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to firm up slightly. This will make cutting and serving cleaner and more precise.

Storage Tips:

Cool Before Storing: Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the casserole soggy.
Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent the casserole from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, you may want to freeze it in portions for easier reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if it was frozen. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If reheating from frozen, bake covered with foil for 45-60 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Avoid Overheating: When reheating, avoid overheating as it can dry out the casserole. Stirring occasionally while reheating can help distribute heat evenly.