Name: Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: 5 Comforting Layers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce; 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked; 2 cups cottage cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! This dish is the epitome of hearty flavor, combining rich, savory meat with gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta. I stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly winter evening when I needed something warm and satisfying. It quickly became a family favorite, and trust me, every bite feels like a warm hug! The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Once you try this casserole, you’ll understand why I call it a million-dollar dish!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to make your million dollar spaghetti casserole truly shine:

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
8 ounces spaghetti, cooked
2 cups cottage cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure your pasta is cooked al dente for that perfect texture! Trust me, this blend of ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying dish that everyone will love.

How to Prepare the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Now, let’s dive into making this delicious million dollar spaghetti casserole! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that’s ready to impress. Trust me, it’s easier than it sounds!

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, gather and chop all your ingredients. Having everything ready makes the process so much smoother, and you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen!

Cooking the Meat Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. The aroma will be irresistible—seriously, it’s the best part!

Mixing the Spaghetti and Cheese

In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cottage cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Make sure to mix it well, so every strand of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. You want that cheese to be evenly distributed for maximum flavor!

Assembling the Casserole

Now, spread the spaghetti mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top it off with the savory meat sauce you just made, making sure it covers all the noodles. Then, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top for that gooey, cheesy finish!

Baking Instructions

Pop your casserole into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. You’ll know it’s done when you see that delicious cheese melting and slightly browning. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, and enjoy the warmth and comfort in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, hearty flavors that satisfy every craving.
Cheesy, gooey goodness in every bite.
Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spices.

Tips for Success

For the perfect million dollar spaghetti casserole, don’t skip the browning step—this adds so much flavor! Also, letting the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving helps it set, making it easier to slice. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add veggies like spinach for a twist!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Keep in mind that nutritional information can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided estimates to give you a general idea, precise data isn’t always available. It’s always a good idea to check labels for the most accurate information!

FAQ Section

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the million dollar spaghetti casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It’s a great time-saver!

Can I use a different type of meat?
Of course! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully, and you can even skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version. Just add some extra veggies instead!

What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. It’s a meal on its own, but a little something on the side never hurts!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! This casserole freezes beautifully. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly and popping it in the freezer. It can last up to three months!

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: 5 Comforting Layers

Author: Julia marin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A hearty and flavorful spaghetti casserole that combines the richness of pasta with savory meat and cheese.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the meat is browned.
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cottage cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Mix well.
Spread the spaghetti mixture in a greased casserole dish.
Top with the meat sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.