Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole – The Ultimate Cheesy Baked Pasta Recipe

If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food dinner, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is rich, creamy, cheesy, and guaranteed to impress. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender spaghetti, creamy cheese layers, and savory marinara sauce, this baked pasta casserole tastes like a million bucks — without the expensive price tag.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, meal prep, or freezer meals, this easy spaghetti casserole recipe is a true American favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

✅ Creamy, cheesy, and hearty
✅ Feeds a crowd
✅ Perfect make-ahead meal
✅ Freezer-friendly
✅ Family-approved comfort food

This baked spaghetti casserole combines the flavors of classic spaghetti and lasagna into one irresistible dish.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Pasta Layer:

16 oz spaghetti
2 tablespoons butter

Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara or pasta sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

Creamy Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
1 cup sour cream

Topping:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and toss with butter. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, ricotta (or cottage cheese), and sour cream until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Layer in this order:

Half of the buttered spaghetti
All of the cream cheese mixture
Remaining spaghetti
Meat sauce evenly spread on top
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Tips for the Best Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Soften cream cheese fully for a smooth layer.
Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melting.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.
Let the casserole rest before serving to help it set.

Delicious Variations

Swap ground beef for Italian sausage.
Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
Use half mozzarella and half provolone for extra flavor.
Make it spicy with hot Italian sausage.

What to Serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti

Pair this hearty casserole with:

Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted vegetables
Steamed broccoli

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze baked or unbaked for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called Million Dollar Spaghetti?

The rich, creamy cheese layer makes it taste luxurious — like a million dollars!

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Absolutely. Cottage cheese works perfectly in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting Italian-American flavors. It’s an easy baked spaghetti recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, holiday gatherings, or whenever you need a satisfying meal.

Make this crowd-pleasing casserole tonight and enjoy a dish that truly tastes like a million dollars!

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole