Introduction
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a dish that never fails to impress, with its rich, creamy flavors and satisfying texture. This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is a favorite among many, and for good reason – it’s a comforting, indulgent treat that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of tangy marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella cheese is a match made in heaven.
When you take a bite of Million Dollar Spaghetti, the first thing you notice is the aroma of garlic and fresh parsley, which fills the air and teases your taste buds. The texture is just as impressive, with al dente spaghetti coated in a creamy sauce and topped with a layer of melted cheese. The flavors are bold and satisfying, with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami notes.
Whether you’re a spaghetti lover or just looking for a new recipe to try, Million Dollar Spaghetti is sure to become a favorite. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of Million Dollar Spaghetti, and discover what makes this dish so special.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is a standout for several reasons. First, the creamy ricotta layer adds a richness and depth to the dish that’s hard to resist. The melted mozzarella topping is the perfect finishing touch, adding a creamy, cheesy element that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Another reason to love this recipe is its ease of preparation. With common ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in no time. Plus, the comfort food aspect of Million Dollar Spaghetti makes it perfect for family dinners or gatherings, where you want to serve something that’s both nourishing and delicious.
So, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite, look no further than Million Dollar Spaghetti. With its creamy sauce, melted cheese, and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. If you like this recipe, you might also enjoy our Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese or Creamy Mushroom Risotto recipes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground beef with mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini. Simply sauté the vegetables in olive oil until they’re tender, then add the marinara sauce and proceed with the recipe.
For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the ricotta cheese with tofu or vegan ricotta cheese. You can also use nutritional yeast to give the dish a cheesy, nutty flavor.
When it comes to herbs, you can use either fresh or dried basil and oregano. Fresh herbs have a brighter, more vibrant flavor, while dried herbs are more concentrated and have a longer shelf life. Either way, be sure to use high-quality herbs to get the best flavor out of your dish.
Equipment Needed
To make Million Dollar Spaghetti, you’ll need a few pieces of essential equipment. These include a large skillet, large bowl, 9×13-inch baking dish, and oven. The large skillet is perfect for cooking the ground beef and sauce, while the large bowl is ideal for combining the cooked spaghetti, sauce, and cheese.
The 9×13-inch baking dish is the perfect size for holding the spaghetti mixture, and the oven is necessary for baking the dish to perfection. With these pieces of equipment, you’ll be able to create a delicious, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Cook spaghetti in boiling, salted water for 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain spaghetti and set aside.
- Sauté ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onions to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in canned crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and dried basil, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Combine cooked spaghetti, sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a large bowl, tossing until spaghetti is well coated.
- Transfer spaghetti mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
Visual Guide & Tips
As you cook the spaghetti, be sure to check it frequently to avoid overcooking. The perfect al dente texture should be slightly firm in the center, but still tender and yielding to the bite.
When combining the cooked spaghetti, sauce, and cheese, be sure to toss the mixture until the spaghetti is well coated. This will help the flavors to meld together and create a creamy, cheesy sauce.
As the dish bakes in the oven, be sure to check it frequently to avoid overcooking. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with a golden brown top that’s crispy and caramelized.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
To avoid common mistakes, be sure to cook the spaghetti al dente and not overcook it. This will help the dish to retain its texture and flavor, and prevent it from becoming mushy or unappetizing.
Another common mistake is not letting the sauce simmer long enough. This can result in a sauce that’s too thin or watery, rather than thick and creamy. To avoid this, be sure to let the sauce simmer for at least 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired consistency.
If you’re having trouble getting the cheese to melt and bubble, try increasing the oven temperature or using a different type of cheese. You can also try broiling the dish for a few minutes to get a crispy, caramelized top.
Some other tips to keep in mind include using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh parsley and real mozzarella cheese. These will help to elevate the dish and give it a more authentic flavor.
In addition to these tips, be sure to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make the dish your own. Some ideas include adding meatballs or sausage to the sauce, or using goat cheese or feta cheese instead of mozzarella. For more recipe ideas, check out our Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe.
Storage & Freezing
To store Million Dollar Spaghetti, be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. This will help to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep the dish fresh for a longer period of time.
If you’re refrigerating the dish, be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2-3 months, thawing it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When reheating the dish, be sure to use a low heat and stir frequently to avoid burning or scorching. You can also add a little bit of water or sauce to the dish to help it to reheat more evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about Million Dollar Spaghetti, along with their answers:
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce and cook the spaghetti ahead of time, then assemble and bake the dish when you’re ready.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Be sure to let the dish cool completely before refrigerating or freezing, and use airtight containers to keep it fresh.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese, feta cheese, or parmesan cheese.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini, and use tofu or vegan ricotta cheese instead of dairy cheese.
Q: How do I get the cheese to melt and bubble?
A: Try increasing the oven temperature or using a different type of cheese, and be sure to let the dish bake for at least 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a dish that’s sure to become a favorite, with its creamy sauce, melted cheese, and satisfying texture. Whether you’re a spaghetti lover or just looking for a new recipe to try, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
So, go ahead and give Million Dollar Spaghetti a try – and don’t forget to share your experiences and variations with me on social media! Did you make this? Pin it on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram @EvasRecipes!
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Cook spaghetti in boiling, salted water for 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain spaghetti and set aside.
- Sauté ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onions to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in canned crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and dried basil, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Combine cooked spaghetti, sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a large bowl, tossing until spaghetti is well coated.
- Transfer spaghetti mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish and top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool before serving.