I remember Sunday afternoons at my grandmother’s house. The aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and bubbling cheese would fill the air. Family would gather, laughter echoing around the table, and a giant pan of Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole would always be the star. It wasn’t fancy, it wasn’t complicated, but it was pure, unadulterated comfort. This recipe is my adaptation of her classic, passed down through generations. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but special enough to impress. Let’s recreate that feeling of home, one delicious bite at a time.
Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
This isn’t just any spaghetti casserole. It’s Million Dollar for a reason! Here’s why you’ll be coming back to this recipe time and again:
- Easy to Make: Seriously, it’s a breeze. Even beginner cooks can whip this up.
- Budget-Friendly: It’s packed with hearty ingredients and stretches your dollar. Perfect for feeding a crowd or a family on a budget.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves spaghetti. Combining it with creamy sauce, savory meat, and gooey cheese? It’s a guaranteed hit!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the day before, bake it when you’re ready. Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier.
- Seriously Delicious: The combination of flavors is just chef’s kiss. It’s a comforting hug in food form.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece. I’ve included measurements for a standard 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage, see variations below!)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces (for topping)
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions
Okay, let’s make some magic! This recipe is broken down into easy steps.
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- Drain the spaghetti and set aside. Don’t rinse it! The starch helps the sauce cling.
2. Brown the Meat & Veggies:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Build the Sauce:
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the skillet.
- Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld. Longer simmering (up to an hour) is even better!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and the meat sauce. Mix well to ensure all the spaghetti is coated.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Pour half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti layer.
- Top with the remaining spaghetti mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake to Perfection:
- Dot the top of the casserole with the small pieces of butter. This will help create a golden-brown and bubbly crust.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.
Tips, Variations & Serving Suggestions
Now for the fun part – customizing your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole!
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Al dente is key! Soggy spaghetti will ruin the texture of the casserole.
- Simmer the Sauce: Really letting the sauce simmer amplifies the flavors.
- Use Good Quality Cheese: It makes a difference!
- Butter is Your Friend: Don’t skip the butter on top! It creates a wonderful crust.
Variations to Try:
- Italian Sausage: Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage (sweet or hot) for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the sauce for extra richness.
- Spice it Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Add Veggies: Sauté some mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach with the onions for added nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: A classic pairing!
- Caesar Salad: A light and refreshing side.
- Green Beans: A simple and healthy option.
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley: Adds a pop of freshness and colour.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)
- Servings: 8-10
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
Time to Make Some Memories!
My grandmother’s Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a taste of home. I hope you enjoy making it and sharing it with your loved ones. Don’t be afraid to get creative! This recipe is a fantastic base to build upon. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dish that will become a family favorite. Give it a try – I promise you won’t regret it!
