Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake
A rich, cheesy, and decadent layered pasta casserole featuring perfectly cooked spaghetti, a creamy ricotta and cream cheese blend, and savory seasoned beef in marinara sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella for a golden-brown finish.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Italian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
8 oz (227g) spaghetti, cooked al dente
1 lb (454g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
4 oz (113g) cream cheese, softened
1 large egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups (about 8 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain off excess fat.
Season the browned beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well.
Add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the beef. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes.
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, softened cream cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Spread the cooked spaghetti evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti, then gently spread it to create an even layer.
Pour the beef and marinara sauce mixture over the ricotta layer, spreading to cover.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, you can add sautéed onions and garlic to the beef mixture. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth ricotta blend. Let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Find it online: https://kindeat.com/million-dollar-spaghetti-bake/