Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole (Rich, Cheesy & Crowd-Pleasing)
If you’re looking for a comfort food recipe that never disappoints, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s rich, creamy, cheesy, and layered with bold Italian flavors that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen—even though it’s incredibly easy to make. This dish has been a family favorite for years, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s earned the name “million dollar”.
Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, family gatherings, or freezer meals, this casserole combines tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and a luxurious creamy cheese layer that melts into every bite. It’s the kind of recipe people ask for again and again.
Why Everyone Loves Million Dollar Spaghetti
✔ Comfort food classic
✔ Budget-friendly ingredients
✔ Feeds a crowd
✔ Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
✔ Kid-approved and husband-approved
This casserole tastes like baked spaghetti, lasagna, and creamy pasta all rolled into one irresistible dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the pasta layer:
12 oz spaghetti
Salt for boiling water
For the meat sauce:
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara or spaghetti sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the creamy cheese layer:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
¼ cup sour cream
For topping:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook spaghetti in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Layer
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cottage cheese (or ricotta), and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Layer as follows:
Half of the cooked spaghetti
Entire creamy cheese mixture
Remaining spaghetti
All of the meat sauce
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti
Use Italian sausage for extra flavor
Add red pepper flakes if you like heat
Swap ricotta for cottage cheese if preferred
Don’t overcook the pasta—it will bake again
Let it rest before slicing for clean layers
Make-Ahead & Freezer Instructions
Make Ahead:
Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezer Friendly:
Wrap tightly with foil and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What to Serve With Million Dollar Spaghetti
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
Simple green salad
Roasted vegetables
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without meat?
Yes! Just skip the meat and use extra sauce or add sautéed mushrooms and spinach.
Can I use different pasta?
Absolutely—penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well.
Why is it called “Million Dollar”?
Because the creamy cheese layer makes it taste rich, indulgent, and restaurant-quality!
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to. It’s comforting, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re feeding a family or bringing a dish to share, this casserole delivers big flavor with simple ingredients.
If you make this recipe once, don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your dinner rotation—because it truly tastes like a million bucks.
