Million Dollar Spaghetti: A Flavorsome Casserole Delight
A cozy layered pasta bake that turns simple ingredients into a decadent family favorite.
Introduction to Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti is not just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary masterpiece that combines the comforting flavors of spaghetti, cheese, and meat sauce in a casserole that’s both budget-friendly and crowd-pleasing. This recipe, popularized by Ree Drummond, is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients can be transformed into a dish so satisfying that it feels like a million bucks.
Ingredients Needed
To create this delightful casserole, you will need a mix of pantry staples and some fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage or pork sausage
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Meat Sauce
The meat sauce is the heart of Million Dollar Spaghetti. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
- Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook and crumble the meat until it’s no longer pink.
- yabancı Seasons: Add salt, pepper, and marinara sauce (save about ½ cup for later). Stir well and let it simmer to combine the flavors.
Preparing the Cheese Layer
The cheese layer adds a creamy richness to the dish. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Mix the Cheese: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese (or ricotta). Mix well until smooth.
- Additional Flavor: You can add some grated parmesan or basil for extra flavor.
Assembling the Casserole
Now it’s time to bring everything together:
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and toss with butter and the reserved marinara sauce.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Place half of the spaghetti in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spoon the cheese mixture over the pasta.
- Add the remaining spaghetti.
- Layer the meat sauce on top.
- Finish with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
To make this recipe even more versatile, consider these tips and variations:
- Make-Ahead Instructions: Prepare the sauce, noodles, and cheese layer up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole just before baking.
- Freezing: Prepare the casserole right up until the baking step. Cover with greased aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.
- Additional Meat: Consider adding other meats like ground pork or prosciutto for extra flavor.
- Customize the Cheese: Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a different texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Million Dollar Spaghetti?
A: Million Dollar Spaghetti is a layered pasta casserole made with spaghetti, homemade meat sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture.
Q: Why is it called Million Dollar Spaghetti?
A: Its name reflects how much people love this dish, suggesting it’s worth a million dollars.
Q: Can I customize the recipe?
A: Yes, you can customize it by adding different meats or cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for later use.
References
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