Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: A Cheesy, Comforting Classic

If you love spaghetti and lasagna, you’ll go crazy for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! This dish is the perfect blend of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and perfectly cooked pasta—all baked under a golden layer of melted cheese.

It’s called “Million Dollar” because it’s so rich, indulgent, and absolutely delicious—yet it’s surprisingly affordable and easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just looking for a comforting homemade dinner, this casserole will be your new go-to recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Creamy, Cheesy & Loaded with Flavor
✔️ Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients
✔️ Great for Feeding a Crowd
✔️ Perfect for Freezing & Meal Prep
✔️ Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 egg (to help bind the cheese layer)

For the Pasta & Topping:

12 oz spaghetti noodles, cooked & drained
2 tablespoons butter, melted (to coat the pasta)
1 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet or pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Drain excess grease, then add spaghetti sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than package instructions).
Drain the pasta and toss with melted butter to keep it from sticking.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Filling

In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, ricotta (or cottage cheese), shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and egg.
Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly in the dish.
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the pasta.
Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese layer.
Pour the meat sauce over everything, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake & Serve

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 10 more minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!

Serving Suggestions

🍞 Garlic Bread – The perfect side to soak up all that sauce!
🥗 Side Salad – A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances out the richness.
🧄 Roasted Vegetables – Try broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus for a healthy side.
🍷 Red Wine – A glass of Chianti or Cabernet pairs perfectly!

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti

✔️ Use Full-Fat Cheese – This makes the dish extra creamy and flavorful.
✔️ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Slightly undercook it since it will bake longer in the oven.
✔️ Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
✔️ Use Italian Sausage – Swap the ground beef for sausage to add even more flavor!
✔️ Double the Recipe – This dish freezes beautifully, so make an extra pan!

Make-Ahead & Freezing Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven at 325°F until warmed through.

How to Freeze

Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it yet.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap & foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
To bake from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

Variations & Customizations

🌱 Make It Vegetarian – Swap beef for mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based crumbles.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Add more shredded mozzarella & Parmesan for extra indulgence.
🍗 Try Ground Turkey – A leaner option that still tastes amazing.
🌶️ Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Pasta?

Yes! Try penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine if you prefer a different shape.

Can I Make This Without Cream Cheese?

Yes! Swap it for extra ricotta or cottage cheese for a similar texture.

What’s the Difference Between This & Lasagna?

Million Dollar Spaghetti is easier to make than lasagna because there’s no layering of noodles—just mix, layer, and bake!

Final Thoughts

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Make it tonight and enjoy a million-dollar meal without the price tag!