Introduction:

Embrace the richness of Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole, a hearty and indulgent dish perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. Layers of savory ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tangy spaghetti sauce meld together to create a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 jar spaghetti sauce
8 oz cream cheese
¼ cup sour cream
½ lb cottage cheese (1 cup)
½ cup butter (1 stick)
1 package spaghetti (16 oz)
Grated cheddar cheese

Directions:

Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Boil the spaghetti noodles until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until well blended.
Prepare Meat Sauce:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Mix the cooked beef with the spaghetti sauce.
Assembly:
- Place a few slices of butter in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti noodles over the butter.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Add the remaining spaghetti noodles on top, followed by a few more slices of butter.
- Pour the spaghetti and meat sauce over the top layer of noodles.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, sprinkle desired amount of grated cheddar cheese on top.
- Return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 480 per serving
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Moderate
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American
Category: Main Dish
Serving Size: 1 piece
Nutrients per serving:
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serve hot and fresh from the oven for the best taste and texture.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Health Benefits:

Protein Source: Ground beef provides essential protein for muscle growth and repair.
Calcium: Dairy ingredients like cream cheese and cottage cheese contribute to bone health.
Moderate Carbohydrates: Spaghetti offers sustained energy from complex carbohydrates.
Vitamin A: Spaghetti sauce provides vitamin A, which supports vision and immune health.
Portion Control: Enjoying this casserole in moderation helps maintain a balanced diet and prevents overconsumption of calories.

Resources:

Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese Casserole – A comforting and cheesy alternative for pasta lovers.
Garlic Bread Recipe – A classic accompaniment to enhance the flavors of your spaghetti casserole.
Italian Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette – A refreshing side dish to balance the richness of the casserole.
Tips for Freezing and Reheating Casseroles – Learn how to properly store and reheat leftovers for future enjoyment.
Healthy Substitutions for High-Calorie Ingredients – Discover alternatives to reduce calories and make your casserole healthier.

Conclusion:

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole offers a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional spaghetti, making it a favorite among family and friends. With its layers of creamy cheese and savory meat sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

FAQs:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner option.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Bake before serving.
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
- Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite cheeses for unique flavor combinations.
Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?
- Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
- Omit the ground beef and increase the amount of vegetables or use meatless crumbles as a substitute.