Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. Here’s a basic recipe for you to try:

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound (16 oz) spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Spaghetti:
   • Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until the onions are soft and the meat is browned.
4. Add Marinara Sauce and Tomatoes:
   • Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes.
5. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture:
   • In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until well combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole:
   • In a greased baking dish, spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom.
   • Place half of the cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce.
   • Spread the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
   • Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cream cheese layer.
   • Pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti.
7. Cheese Layer:
   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
9. Garnish and Serve:
   • If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Let it cool for a few minutes before cutting into portions.

Enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.