Name: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 3 Tbsp. olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 onion, diced; 1 Tbsp. minced fresh rosemary; 1 lb. spicy breakfast sausage; 1 lb. ground chuck; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 32 oz. marinara sauce ((about 4 c.)); 1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, at room temperature; 2 cups low-fat cottage cheese, at room temperature; 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese ((about 2 oz.)); 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil (plus more for topping); 1 tsp. kosher salt; 1 large egg, at room temperature; 1 lb. spaghetti, cooked according to the package instructions; 1/2 cup jarred pesto; 2 cups grated mozzarella ((about 8 oz.)); Crusty bread (, for serving)

Introduction to Million Dollar Spaghetti

What is Million Dollar Spaghetti and why is it loved?

Million Dollar Spaghetti is not just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary masterpiece that transforms the classic spaghetti experience into something truly extraordinary. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti, a luscious meat sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture that seems to whisper comfort in every bite. What sets this dish apart is the harmony of robust flavors and textures that come together effortlessly.

Loved by many for its heartiness and indulgence, Million Dollar Spaghetti is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The name itself evokes curiosity—how does a dish reach such a prestigious title? Perhaps it’s because it tastes so rich and delicious that you’ll swear it was made in a five-star restaurant.

For those seeking a crowd-pleaser, this dish delivers. It’s an excellent option for serving a crowd, with its generous yield of 8 to 10 servings, making it ideal for meal prep or potlucks. Plus, the ability to customize—with ingredients like turkey bacon or chicken ham—means everyone can enjoy it. So why wait? Dive into the world of Million Dollar Spaghetti, and treat your taste buds to a delightful experience! You can check out more on the health benefits of pasta while you’re at it!

Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti

When it comes to making million dollar spaghetti, having the right ingredients is essential for achieving the perfect taste and texture. Let’s break it down into three distinct layers: meat sauce, cheese, and spaghetti.

Meat Sauce Ingredients

For a rich and hearty meat sauce, gather the following:

3 Tbsp. olive oil: Perfect for sautéing.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth.
1 green bell pepper, diced: For a fresh crunch.
1 onion, diced: Essential for flavor.
1 Tbsp. minced fresh rosemary: A touch of herbal goodness.
1 lb. spicy breakfast sausage: Brings heat and flavor.
1 lb. ground chuck: A meaty base.
¼ cup tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor.
32 oz. marinara sauce: The perfect finishing touch.

Cheese Layer Ingredients

Next up is the creamy cheese layer that ties it all together:

1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, at room temperature
2 cups low-fat cottage cheese, at room temperature
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (about 2 oz.)
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
1 tsp. kosher salt
1 large egg, at room temperature

Spaghetti Layer Ingredients

Finally, the spaghetti layer that gives this dish its name and heart:

1 lb. spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions
½ cup jarred pesto: Adds depths of flavor.
2 cups grated mozzarella (about 8 oz.) to top it all off
Crusty bread, perfect for serving

Now you're all set to create your own million dollar spaghetti! For more tips on cooking pasta, check out this resource for expert advice on perfecting your technique.

Preparing Million Dollar Spaghetti

Making Million Dollar Spaghetti is not just about combining the right ingredients; it’s also an experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and brings loved ones together. With this friendly guide, you’ll be overtaken by the savory layers and cheesy goodness in no time. So let’s get started!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your Million Dollar Spaghetti cooks evenly and reaches that perfect golden-brown texture. While it heats up, you can gather your ingredients and get into the groove of cooking.

Cook the Meat Sauce

In a large Dutch oven, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it shimmers, introduce 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 1 diced onion, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, blend in 1 pound of spicy breakfast sausage and 1 pound of ground chuck. As the meat browns—about 6-7 minutes—use a wooden spoon to break it up.

Next, add ¼ cup of tomato paste and stir until it turns deep red, which should take around 3-5 minutes. Now, pour in 32 ounces of marinara sauce (you can use your favorite store-bought option!) and let everything simmer on low to make those flavors marry beautifully.

Prepare the Cheese Layer

While that sauce is bubbling away, grab a medium bowl and combine 8 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese, 2 cups of low-fat cottage cheese, ½ cup of freshly grated parmesan, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 large egg (also at room temperature). Mixing these together creates a creamy cheese layer that’s essential in our Million Dollar Spaghetti. It’s like a hidden surprise waiting to be discovered in each bite!

Combine Spaghetti with Pesto

Cook 1 pound of spaghetti according to package instructions, drain it well, and then place it in a large bowl. Toss in ½ cup of jarred pesto. This flavor-packed combination will elevate your dish. The sweet and aromatic basil in the pesto elegantly complements the richness of the meat sauce and cheese layers.

Layer and Bake

Now for the fun part! Layer half of the spaghetti into a 13-by-9-inch baking dish. Using a rubber spatula, spread your cheese mixture evenly over the pasta before adding the remaining spaghetti on top. Pour that delicious meat sauce over the strands, leaving a ½-inch border so the spaghetti can peek out around the edges.

Before you bake, sprinkle 2 cups of grated mozzarella on top, then cover it loosely with foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and continue to bake until it’s bubbling and golden brown—anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes. Let your Million Dollar Spaghetti cool for about 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil, and serve it up alongside some crusty bread.

Now that you’ve prepared this stunning dish, get ready for the compliments to pour in! Enjoy the cozy moments and delectable flavors with friends and family. For more inspiration, consider checking out What’s Cooking America for tips on pasta dishes that warm the heart!

Variations on Million Dollar Spaghetti

Vegetarian Million Dollar Spaghetti

If you’re looking for a meatless twist on the classic Million Dollar Spaghetti, simply replace the meat sauce with a delectable vegetable medley. Try sautéing mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach, then simmer them in marinara for a rich flavor. You can enhance the cheesy goodness by adding a bit of ricotta for creaminess, ensuring you don’t miss the meat!

Spicy Million Dollar Spaghetti

For those who love a kick, a Spicy Million Dollar Spaghetti variation is a must. Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into your meat sauce for added heat. You might also want to think about using spicy Italian sausage instead of regular ground chuck. This fiery version pairs beautifully with the cool, creamy cheese layer – a delightful balance sure to impress your taste buds!

For more inspiration, check out these vegetarian pasta recipes or explore ways to spice up your meals.

Cooking tips and notes for Million Dollar Spaghetti

Ingredient substitutions

When it comes to Million Dollar Spaghetti, feel free to get creative with your ingredients! If you're out of spicy breakfast sausage, lean turkey or chicken sausage works beautifully. You can also swap out cottage cheese for ricotta for a richer cheese layer. If you want to avoid gluten, opt for gluten-free spaghetti or a veggie alternative like zucchini noodles.

Make-ahead tips

This dish is perfect for meal prepping! You can assemble the layers ahead of time and refrigerate the unbaked casserole for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to cook, just pop it in the oven. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can also freeze leftovers for a quick weeknight meal; simply reheat until bubbling. For more tips on storing pasta dishes, check out this guide.

Serving Suggestions for Million Dollar Spaghetti

Pairing with salads

To elevate your Million Dollar Spaghetti, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad. A simple arugula and cherry tomato salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. Alternatively, a classic Caesar salad, with crisp romaine and a tangy dressing, adds a lovely crunch that balances the creamy cheese layer. If you're feeling adventurous, try a Mediterranean salad featuring olives, cucumbers, and feta for a delightful twist!

Suggested sides

For sides, crusty garlic bread is a must-have. It’s perfect for soaking up the savory meat sauce. You might also consider roasted vegetables—think zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus—for a vibrant and healthy balance. If you enjoy a little heat, grilled peppers topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan can add a delectable kick to your meal. This spread will not only impress your guests but also create an unforgettable dining experience!

Time Breakdown for Million Dollar Spaghetti

Preparation Time
To get everything ready, you’ll need about 40 minutes. This includes chopping veggies and assembling your cheese layer. A quick tip: having your ingredients prepped can save you time later on!

Cooking Time
Cooking the million dollar spaghetti is a breeze! Expect to spend around 45 minutes in the oven, ensuring everything is baked to perfection.

Total Time
In total, you’re looking at 1 hour and 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weekend dinner with friends or a cozy family meal!

Nutritional Facts for Million Dollar Spaghetti

Calories

A serving of Million Dollar Spaghetti delivers approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying choice for your dinner table without breaking your calorie bank.

Protein

With a balanced mix of meats and cheeses, this dish boasts about 25 grams of protein per serving, helping you feel full and energized.

Sodium

Keep in mind that each serving contains around 800 mg of sodium. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider opting for low-sodium marinara sauce or adjusting the amount of salt in the cheese mixture.

For more in-depth information on nutrients, you can check resources like USDA FoodData Central or NutritionData. Enjoy crafting this delicious meal while being mindful of your dietary choices!

FAQs about Million Dollar Spaghetti

Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Absolutely! You can freeze million dollar spaghetti before or after baking. If you choose to freeze it unbaked, simply assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If you’ve got leftovers, you can also freeze them in individual portions, making for a convenient meal later on.

How can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti healthier?

Looking to lighten up your million dollar spaghetti? Here are a few easy swaps:

Use whole grain or lentil spaghetti for a fiber boost.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
Opt for low-fat cheese options or reduce the quantity of cheese.
Add more veggies, like spinach or zucchini, to the meat sauce for added nutrition.

What do I do with leftovers?

Leftover million dollar spaghetti is a treat! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. For an easy lunch, you can try repurposing it into a baked spaghetti pie by adding an egg and fresh veggies, then baking it until set.

For more tips on meal prepping, check out this article on healthy meal storage.

Conclusion on Million Dollar Spaghetti

In closing, Million Dollar Spaghetti is not just a meal; it's an experience perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. The harmonious blend of flavors, creamy cheese, and rich meat sauce truly makes this dish a standout. Give it a try, and share your thoughts! For more culinary inspiration, explore recipes at Food Network.