Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: A Creamy, Hearty Delight
The Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a classic comfort food that lives up to its name. This rich and indulgent dish combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheese for a truly unforgettable taste experience. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion when you're craving something extra special, this casserole is sure to impress.
The Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a layered masterpiece featuring tender spaghetti noodles bathed in a savory tomato sauce, topped with a creamy cheese mixture and baked to perfection. The combination of flavors and textures creates a symphony of taste that will leave you craving more. The casserole is both hearty and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces dried spaghetti noodles
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ pounds sweet Italian sausage, casing removed
- 3 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning, divided
- 48 ounces spaghetti sauce (2 jars), divided
- 8 ounces cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
- ½ cup butter, cut into slices, divided
Instructions
Preparation:
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions, drain well, and return to the pot. Stir in one jar of spaghetti sauce and set aside.
- Sauté sausage and vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Add Italian sausage and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Cook until sausage is no longer pink, then drain excess grease. Stir in the remaining jar of spaghetti sauce.
- Prepare cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine cottage cheese (or ricotta), cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth.
Assembly and Baking:
- Layer casserole: Spread half of the butter slices in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the spaghetti mixture, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of spaghetti. Dot with remaining butter slices and pour the sausage sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake: Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Tips
- For a spicier casserole, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.
- To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the spaghetti, sausage sauce, and cheese mixture up to one day in advance. Assemble the casserole just before baking.
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade spaghetti sauce.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, increase the amount of cottage cheese or ricotta cheese.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
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