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Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti 1-2 minutes less than package directions (it will finish cooking in the oven).
- Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned.
- Add the onion and garlic and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, garlic powder, and salt until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer 1 (Half of Spaghetti): Spread half of the cooked spaghetti into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 2 (Cheese Mixture): Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the pasta.
- Layer 3 (Remaining Spaghetti): Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
- Layer 4 (Meat Sauce): Pour the savory meat sauce over everything.
- Layer 5 (Cheesy Topping): Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping (Optional but Delicious!)
- Mix melted butter with breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers and sprinkle over the cheese for an extra crunchy topping.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
🍞 Pair with garlic bread – Nothing beats soaking up that cheesy, saucy goodness!
🥗 Serve with a fresh green salad – A crisp side balances out the richness.
🧄 Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley – For an added touch of freshness.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
✔ Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready!
✔ Freeze for Later: Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
✔ Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. It’s easy to make, great for meal prep, and always a hit with family and friends.
Try this delicious, restaurant-worthy baked spaghetti dish today and enjoy every cheesy, meaty, and satisfying bite! 🍝🧀✨
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