MILLION DOLLAR SPAGHETTI CASSEROLE

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer

While the ground beef is cooking, mix together the creamy cheese filling. In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This cheesy layer is what gives the casserole its signature creamy texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Start by layering half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the baking dish. Then, spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Next, add half of the cooked ground beef and top with a layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, cheese mixture, ground beef, and marinara sauce.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping

Once all the layers are assembled, top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt beautifully as the casserole bakes, creating a gooey, golden topping.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Slice into squares and serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole:

1. Add extra flavor with seasonings: If you like a little heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture. Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil can also elevate the flavor.
2. Use high-quality marinara sauce: The sauce is one of the main components of this dish, so using a flavorful, well-made marinara will make a big difference in taste.
3. Make it ahead: This casserole can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply cover it with foil and bake it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
4. Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian version of this casserole, you can replace the ground beef with a variety of veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Add a bit of Italian seasoning to the vegetable mixture for extra flavor.
5. Freezing option: You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

Why You’ll Love Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole:

1. Creamy and Cheesy: The layers of cream cheese, sour cream, and melted mozzarella create a comforting, rich texture that makes this casserole irresistible.
2. Perfect for a Crowd: This casserole is the perfect dish to serve at a party, family gathering, or holiday meal. It’s hearty, filling, and feeds a lot of people.
3. Comfort Food at Its Best: With its layers of cheesy goodness, savory ground beef, and marinara sauce, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s like a warm hug in every bite.
4. Easy to Make: Despite its rich, layered appearance, this casserole is surprisingly simple to prepare. With minimal effort, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to make.
5. Versatile: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you prefer turkey instead of beef or want to add some vegetables, this recipe can be customized to fit your tastes.

Final Thoughts:

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a deliciously cheesy, savory dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With its layers of creamy cheese, ground beef, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, this casserole is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or special occasions. Whether you’re looking for a dish to feed a crowd or a hearty meal to enjoy with your loved ones, Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in this cheesy, mouthwatering delight!