Rich, cheesy, and incredibly comforting, Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate family dinner everyone will ask for again.

Layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti, seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, rich marinara sauce, and bubbling mozzarella come together in this irresistible baked pasta casserole. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and packed with homemade comfort, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Flavour Quest Recipes

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Print Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Servings: 8

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

Pasta

1 pound spaghetti
2 tablespoons butter
Meat Sauce
1 pound lean ground beef
1 small onion diced
3 cloves garlic minced
1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste

Cream Cheese Layer

8 ounces cream cheese softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Method

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2

Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package directions. Drain and toss with butter.

Step 3

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess grease.

Step 4

Add garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 5

In a separate bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, and Parmesan until smooth.

Step 6

Spread half the buttered spaghetti into the baking dish.
Top with the cream cheese mixture.
Add the remaining spaghetti.
Spread the meat sauce evenly over the top.
Finish with shredded mozzarella.

Step 7

Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Step 8

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.

Enjoying this recipe? You may also love my Comfort Dinner Guide — a simple collection of easy, cozy meal ideas for busy weeknights. It’s a helpful extra resource for those nights when you want something comforting without overthinking dinner.

🔄 Variations

Add cooked Italian sausage with the beef.
Use ricotta instead of cottage cheese.
Mix spinach into the cheese layer.
Add mushrooms or bell peppers.
Make it spicy with crushed red pepper flakes.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted broccoli
Garlic green beans
Fresh Parmesan
Red pepper flakes

❄️ Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

🧊 Freezing

Freeze before or after baking for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

🔥 Reheating

Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 20–25 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.

💡 Pro Tips

Cook the spaghetti just until al dente so it doesn’t overcook in the oven. Let the casserole rest before slicing for cleaner servings. Freshly grate the mozzarella for the best melt. Use full-fat dairy for the creamiest texture. Garnish with parsley just before serving for a fresh finish.

❓ FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese?

Absolutely. Ricotta creates an even creamier texture and works wonderfully in this recipe.

Why is it called Million Dollar Spaghetti?

The rich layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella make it taste like a million dollars.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.