Get ready to indulge in a rich and creamy baked spaghetti casserole that tastes like a million bucks! Layers of cheesy goodness, flavorful meat sauce, and tender spaghetti make this a show-stopping comfort food that will wow your family and friends. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner! 🍽️✨
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Pasta Base:
- 🍝 16 oz spaghetti
- 🧂 Salt (for pasta water)
- 🧈 2 tbsp butter
For the Meat Sauce:
- 🥩 1 lb ground beef
- 🧄 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 🍅 24 oz marinara sauce (your favorite brand)
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Layer:
- 🧀 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 🍶 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 🥛 1/2 cup sour cream
- 🌱 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
For Topping:
- 🧈 4 tbsp butter, sliced into pats
- 🧀 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
🔥 Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Spaghetti:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain, toss with 2 tbsp butter, and set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, and minced garlic over medium heat until browned.
- Drain any excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Layer:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sour cream, and parsley. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti.
- Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top, followed by the meat sauce.
- Place pats of butter evenly over the sauce.
5️⃣ Add the Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6️⃣ Bake:
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7️⃣ Serve:
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich & Creamy: Layers of cheese and meat sauce make every bite indulgent.
- Family Favorite: Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for busy nights.
- Customizable: Swap sausage for chicken or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms.
✨ This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole will make you feel like a culinary rockstar without breaking the bank! Serve with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. 🥰🍝