Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Welcome to the delicious world of casseroles! If you’re in search of a meal that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and sure to please a crowd, look no further than the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole. This dish combines the best elements of baked spaghetti and lasagna, resulting in a rich, hearty masterpiece that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly satisfying, thanks to its creamy, cheesy layers and savory meat sauce. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a great option for weeknight meals. Plus, the leftovers are just as tasty the next day, if not better!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for browning meat
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
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 package of spaghetti (16 oz)
- Grated cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil your spaghetti noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until well blended.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef. Once cooked, drain well and mix with the spaghetti sauce.
- Place a few slices of butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish, then add half of the cooked spaghetti noodles.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Add the remaining noodles on top of the cheese mixture, placing a few more slices of butter on top.
- Pour the spaghetti and meat sauce over the noodles.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes. Afterward, top with grated cheddar cheese and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes to melt the cheese.
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when baked. You can substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for extra flavor. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta like ziti or rigatoni for a fun twist.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you’re a fan of ricotta cheese, feel free to use it in place of cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor. Serve this casserole with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad to make a complete meal.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This casserole is rich in protein and calcium, thanks to the cheese and meat. It’s also a great source of carbohydrates for energy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Mozzarella or Parmesan can also be great additions.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
Give this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole a try and experience a delightful, comforting meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you made on this classic recipe. Enjoy!
