Print

Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe Easy Homemade Dinner Idea

baked million dollar spaghetti - featured image
Print Recipe

A cheesy, creamy baked spaghetti casserole packed with layers of flavor, perfect for a comforting and easy homemade dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef, browned and drained
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 2 cups (about 200 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 jar (24 ounces or 680 grams) marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  3. While pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  4. Add 1 medium chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the beef. Cook until onions soften and turn translucent, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. In a large bowl, combine 8 ounces (225 grams) softened cream cheese, 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream, 2 cups (200 grams) shredded cheddar, and 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  6. Pour in the 24-ounce (680 grams) jar of marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well.
  7. Add the cooked spaghetti and beef mixture to the creamy sauce bowl. Toss thoroughly so every strand is coated.
  8. Pour the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
  9. Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top for a golden crust.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and slightly browned.
  11. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to help it set.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain excess fat from beef to avoid greasiness. For texture contrast, add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking. Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours; add extra baking time if baking from cold. Cover with foil if top browns too fast.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked spaghetti, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, baked pasta, million dollar spaghetti

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/baked-million-dollar-spaghetti-recipe-easy-homemade-dinner-idea/