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Million Dollar Spaghetti

Million Dollar Spaghetti: The Ultimate Cozy Pasta Delight

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that impresses with its layers of flavor and comfort.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Uncooked Spaghetti Feel free to swap it for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Ground beef or turkey can be used as alternatives.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Skip if you prefer milder flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 32 ounces Marinara Sauce Use homemade or store-bought.
For the Creamy Cheese Layer
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Neufchâtel is a lighter substitute.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used instead.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Cheddar or fontina cheese work well as alternatives.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Fresh herbs are great for a burst of freshness.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • large pot
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Million Dollar Spaghetti
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position an oven rack in the top third.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta, and parmesan, along with garlic powder and dried oregano; beat until smooth.
  3. Boil salted water in a large pot, add the uncooked spaghetti, and cook for 2 minutes less than the package directions; drain excess water.
  4. Heat a large skillet, add Italian sausage and chopped onion, and sauté until browned (5-7 minutes). Then, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spaghetti with the sausage mixture and marinara sauce, mixing gently until well-coated.
  6. Spread half of the pasta mixture in a 9x13-inch baking dish, dollop with the creamy cheese layer, then top with remaining pasta and mozzarella cheese.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then broil for 2-4 minutes until the cheese is golden.
  8. Let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for easy reheating.

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