Million-Dollar spaghetti casserole is an easy family dinner that features layers of al dente spaghetti, meat sauce, and creamy cheeses! While the name may sound extravagant, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions! It is easy to make and tastes like a million bucks.
3cupsmozzarella(grated, divided into 1 cup and 2 cup portions)
½cupbutter(sliced into ½ tablespoon pats, then divided into two equal portions)
Help Us Out!If you love a recipe, be sure to come back and share your ratings. This helps future users, and allows me to continue sharing free recipes! Angela
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Heat a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the 16 oz spaghetti noodles. Cook pasta according to package instructions minus about 1-2 minutes for the perfect al dente texture.
Drain into a colander and return the cooked pasta to your pot. Add the first 1 jar or 24 ounces (3 cups) of 48 oz spaghetti sauce and combine. Set aside.
Bring a large skillet to medium heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 cup yellow onion and saute until beginning to soften, about 3 minutes. Add the 1 tablespoon garlic and continue sauteing an additional 30 seconds to a minute.
Add 1-1½ lbs sweet Italian sausage and the first half of the 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning to the skillet, and cook until browned with no remaining pink. Drain any excess grease. Add the second 1 jar of 48 oz spaghetti sauce. Stir to combine and set aside.
Mash the softened 8 oz cream cheese so it will blend well with the additional cheese filling ingredients. Once smooth, add the 8 oz cottage cheese, ¼ cup sour cream, the first 1 cup of 3 cups mozzarella, and the remaining half of the 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning. Set aside.
Arrange half of the ½ cup butter slices in the bottom of your 9x13 baking dish. Place half of the spaghetti mixture in the dish, then evenly distribute the cream cheese mixture on top of the pasta.
Spread the remaining second half of the spaghetti over the cheese mixture. Then place the remaining butter slices on top. Pour tomato meat sauce evenly over the top layer of spaghetti.
Top with remaining mozzarella and bake in preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until casserole is heated through, about 40-45 minutes. *I suggest an aluminum foil lined baking sheet under the pan to catch any drippings.
Notes
Use 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon (4 quarts) of water. For more tips on cooking spaghetti to perfection, see my article on how long to cook spaghetti.
You can substitute the cottage cheese for equal amounts of ricotta cheese if preferred.
If you'd like to add some heat to this casserole dish, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper or use diced jalapenos.
While this recipe traditionally calls for mozzarella, you can try using different types of cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack if desired.
If you want to add vegetables to this casserole, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can add extra flavor and nutrition!
To store: Once completely cooled, transfer any leftover spaghetti casserole to an airtight container. Store in your refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze: After baking, allow your casserole to cool completely. If you plan on freezing individual portions, wrap each piece with plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Then place them in a heavy-duty freezer bag or freezer-safe containers. Alternatively, you can freeze larger amounts in a freezer-safe baking dish with a lid for up to 3-4 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating instructions below.
To reheat: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer your leftovers to a baking dish. Cover loosely with a sheet of aluminum foil and cook for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through to your liking. *If the casserole appears dry, add a bit of spaghetti sauce before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second increments.
best baked spaghetti, easy casseroles, how to make baked million dollar spaghetti casserole, Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, million dollar spaghetti casserole ingredients