This Easy Million-Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a real winner! It combines delicious spaghetti, rich cheese, and a yummy sauce all baked together until bubbly and golden. Perfect for the whole family!
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this meal, and trust me, it’ll disappear quickly at the dinner table. I love serving it with a side salad for a simple, satisfying night! 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works great here, but you can swap it out for other pasta types like penne or rotini if you prefer something different. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary!
Ground Beef: I commonly use ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, use cooked lentils or a meatless meat alternative.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, use vegan cream cheese or a cashew cream for a similar texture. Just make sure it’s softened for easy mixing!
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic here, but feel free to mix it with provolone or even a cheddar blend for different flavors. If you’re lactose-intolerant, consider a dairy-free cheese specifically designed for melting.
How Do You Ensure the Casserole Is Creamy and Not Dry?
To keep your casserole creamy, it’s essential to balance the cheese and sauce. Here’s how:
- Cook the spaghetti just until al dente; it will absorb some sauce while baking.
- Use enough sauce and creamy elements like cream cheese and sour cream in the mixture; feel free to add a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick.
- Cover with foil for the first part of baking to trap moisture, then uncover to let the cheese brown.
Taking these steps will help you avoid a dry casserole and ensure everyone loves your dish!
Easy Million-Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 8 ounces spaghetti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 (10-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty casserole takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of baking, making it ready in under 1 hour! It’s a quick and easy meal for busy evenings or weekend family dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Next, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Make sure not to overcook it, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Once done, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
3. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat when you’re done cooking!
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the marinara or spaghetti sauce and the Italian seasoning. Let it simmer on the stove for about 5 minutes, then take it off the heat.
5. Mix the Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked spaghetti and the meat sauce to the cheese mixture. Gently stir until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
7. Layer the Casserole:
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top for that delicious cheesy finish.
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake it uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit, making it easier to serve. If you’d like, garnish with some fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color!
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Million-Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is ready to go! Serve it warm and watch it disappear in no time. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ about Easy Million-Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta works great for a healthier option. If you need a gluten-free alternative, look for gluten-free spaghetti made from brown rice or quinoa. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may vary slightly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead! Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Should I Serve with This Casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve some roasted or steamed vegetables alongside to balance out the meal!