Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich, creamy baked pasta casserole layered with tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and a luscious blend of cheeses. It combines the comfort of classic spaghetti with the indulgent layers of lasagna, creating a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers incredible flavor with simple, accessible ingredients. The creamy cheese layer melts beautifully between layers of spaghetti and hearty meat sauce, creating a balanced bite every time.

It’s beginner-friendly and easy to assemble, making it ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. The casserole format allows you to prepare it ahead of time, freeze it for later, and reheat it with excellent results.

The combination of Italian-style sausage, marinara sauce, cream cheese, cottage cheese, and mozzarella creates a rich, comforting dish that tastes far more indulgent than the effort required.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 ounces spaghetti

1 ½ pounds Italian sausage, casing removed (or ground beef or ground turkey)

1 large yellow onion, finely chopped

6 cloves garlic, minced

48 ounces marinara sauce or spaghetti sauce, divided

3 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided

8 ounces cottage cheese or ricotta cheese

8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature

¼ cup sour cream

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, optional for garnish

2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese, optional for garnish

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain thoroughly and return the pasta to the pot. Stir in 24 ounces of marinara sauce until evenly coated. Set aside.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Break the meat apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is browned and fully cooked and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.

Stir the remaining 24 ounces of marinara sauce and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning into the meat mixture. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese (or ricotta), softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and well blended.

Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Layer the cheese mixture over the spaghetti and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining spaghetti. Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top layer.

Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, until heated through and bubbling. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella cheese over the top during the last 20 minutes of baking. Continue baking until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 generous portions

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

For a spicier version, add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.

Swap Italian sausage with ground turkey for a lighter option, and add an extra ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning to boost flavor.

Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a smoother texture.

Try different pasta shapes such as ziti or rigatoni if spaghetti is not available.

Add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers to the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat individual portions, microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway through if possible, until heated thoroughly.

To reheat a larger portion, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until heated through.

To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and add 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time.

If reheating from frozen after baking, add a few tablespoons of extra marinara sauce before warming to help maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking and add about 15 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze this casserole before baking?

Yes. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I use instead of Italian sausage?

Ground beef or ground turkey works well. If substituting, add extra Italian seasoning for enhanced flavor.

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?

Yes. Ricotta provides a smoother, more traditional lasagna-style texture.

Why should I cook the pasta al dente?

Al dente pasta holds its shape during baking and prevents the casserole from becoming overly soft.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure there is enough sauce covering the layers and avoid overbaking. Adding a little extra sauce when reheating also helps.

Can I use reduced-fat cream cheese or sour cream?

Yes, reduced-fat versions work well and will still provide creaminess.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The casserole should be hot and bubbling around the edges, and the cheese on top should be fully melted and lightly golden.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes. Prepare two 9×13-inch pans and bake them side by side, rotating halfway through for even cooking.

What side dishes pair well with this recipe?

Garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables complement the richness of the casserole perfectly.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food casserole, combining layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese into one satisfying dish. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining. With its make-ahead convenience and freezer-friendly flexibility, this recipe is sure to become a dependable favorite in your kitchen.

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