You’ve probably tried many pasta recipes, but have you ever heard of “Million Dollar Spaghetti“? This is a dish that not only delights your taste buds but will also amaze your friends and family! Known for its rich and creamy flavors, this recipe has gained worldwide fame. Some see it as the ultimate comfort food, while others compare its taste and presentation to luxury. With a name like “Million Dollar Spaghetti,” it’s hard not to be curious about what makes it so special. So, let’s dive in and explore what makes this dish a must-try and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
Servings: 8-10
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Spaghetti:
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti pasta
- Salt (for boiling pasta)
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or your favorite tomato sauce)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
For the Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240g) sour cream
- 1/4 cup (60g) melted butter
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey), and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cheese Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining meat sauce, spaghetti, and cheese mixture.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake the Dish:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Tips and Variations:
- Meat Options: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even vegetarian meat crumbles for a meatless version.
- Make-Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil.
- Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, uncooked dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Why “Million Dollar”?
The name “Million Dollar Spaghetti” comes from its luxurious, creamy texture and rich flavors, combining layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and cheesy goodness. The cream cheese and sour cream layers add a unique twist that takes this dish beyond traditional spaghetti and makes it a showstopper at any meal. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!
To discover more amazing recipes like Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe, check out our previous article for more delicious food ideas!
