Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

            This dish has made its way around over the years. Mainly because it is tasty, economical and easy to make. Spaghetti casserole is the highlight of our weeknight meals. The family goes insane when I make this.

They would all like it once a week, but I will not do that. I like to change meals up so they do not get boring and we do not get sick of having the same foods all the time.

            This dish is great when your family is extra hungry after a long day, it is perfect when having a potluck or any type of gathering. This is one of those casseroles that easily feed a crowd.

If, for some odd reason, you have food left, don’t worry. This spaghetti casserole tastes just as phenomenal the next day. This is called Million Dollar Spaghetti, not because it costs a lot to make, but because it has a rich flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

            Can I use a different pasta?

You could, This recipe is known for being spaghetti casserole. If you would like, you could break the spaghetti up before you boil it. This will make the pieces smaller if that is what you are after. However, you can certainly substitute rigatoni or ziti pasta. These also work well.

            The recipe calls for ground beef, can I use sausage?

Italian sausage is a great substitute for ground beef. You could also mix it as a half sausage and half beef combination. You could also make a mix of pork and beef, or pork and Italian sausage.

            Can I substitute Cottage Cheese for the Ricotta?

The two cheeses are quite similar, so this is an acceptable switch. Personally, I am fond of the cottage cheese substitute.

What do you need to make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

            1 package spaghetti noodles, cooked according to package directions

            1 pound ground beef or ground Italian Sausage, or a combination

            1 jar of spaghetti sauce, your choice of flavor

            ¼ cup sour cream

            8 ounces cream cheese, softened

            1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta

            ½ cup butter

            Grated Parmesan cheese

How to make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

FIRST STEP:

Cook the spaghetti noodles until al dente, according to package directions.

SECOND STEP:

Preheat the oven to 350*, while the noodles are cooking

In a skillet, brown the meat until thoroughly cooked

Drain the noodles and set aside

THIRD STEP:

Drain excess fats off the meat and set meat to the side

Combine the sour cream, cottage cheese and cream cheese until somewhat smooth.

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b)

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FOURTH STEP:

Combine the spaghetti sauce with the meat

In a 9×13 baking pan, place a few pats of butter at the bottom

FIFTH STEP:

Place half the spaghetti noodles on top of the butter

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti noodles

SIXTH STEP:

Top the cheese mix with the remaining spaghetti noodles

Place a few more pats of butter on top of the spaghetti

SEVENTH STEP:

Top with the meat and sauce mix

Bake for 30 minutes in the oven

EIGHTH STEP:

Top with the chosen amount of freshly grated parmesan cheese

Bake for 10 minutes until the cheese melts

Can be served with Garlic cheese toast slices

Enjoy!

YUM!