Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

A rich, cheesy, ultra-comforting baked pasta dish that tastes like a million bucks

 Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta)
• 8 oz spaghetti pasta
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper to taste

 Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta
   Boil spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the meat sauce
   In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
   Drain excess fat, then add spaghetti sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
3. Make the creamy layer
   In a bowl, mix:
   • Cream cheese
   • Sour cream
   • Cottage cheese
   • Garlic powder

   Stir until smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the casserole
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
   • Grease a baking dish
   • Spread half of the spaghetti on the bottom
   • Add the cream cheese mixture evenly
   • Top with remaining spaghetti
   • Pour meat sauce over everything
5. Add the cheese
   Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
6. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
7. Rest & serve
   Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving (this helps it set).

 Tips:

• Add pepperoni slices or cooked sausage for extra flavor
• Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese for a smoother texture
• Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crispy cheesy top