Million Dollar Spaghetti: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight!
Million dollar spaghetti is a heartwarming dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace with every bite! Imagine layers of tender spaghetti, smothered in a rich, savory marinara sauce, and topped with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella. This delightful recipe swaps out traditional ingredients for flavorful alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy it. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and joy. Get ready to indulge in a plateful of happiness that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together.
- Comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy nights in.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any!
million dollar spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the ingredients.
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in ground turkey or plant-based meat substitute. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with the sauce until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture, followed by ricotta cheese, and then the remaining spaghetti.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti with a sprinkle of fresh basil!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Italian-American |
| Prep Time: | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 45 minutes |
| Total Time: | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 6-8 |
| Best Served: | Hot with garlic bread |
Ingredients
- Spaghetti – The classic base for this comforting dish.
- Ground beef – A hearty protein option; feel free to use ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Marinara sauce – Adds rich flavor; choose a brand you love or make your own!
- Ricotta cheese – Provides creaminess and a delightful texture.
- Shredded mozzarella – Melts beautifully for that gooey topping.
- Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle adds a savory finish.
- Garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor; fresh garlic works too!
- Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings warmth and depth.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste.
- Olive oil – Use for sautéing and adding richness.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti with these easy steps!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook 12 ounces of spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sauté until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Ground Beef Substitute
Stir in 1 pound of ground turkey or plant-based meat substitute. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
Step 5: Mix in Tomato Sauce
Add 2 cups of marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the skillet. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with the sauce until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Layer the Dish
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture, followed by 1 cup of ricotta cheese, and then the remaining spaghetti.
Step 8: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 9: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm. Enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti with a sprinkle of fresh basil!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor; try mozzarella, ricotta, and a sprinkle of parmesan.
•Opt for ground turkey or chicken as a leaner substitute for traditional meat.
•Add a pinch of sugar to your tomato sauce to balance acidity and enhance sweetness.
•Layer the ingredients carefully for even cooking and maximum flavor infusion.
•Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving; it helps the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve
Enjoy your Million Dollar Spaghetti with these delightful serving suggestions:
- Top with fresh basil for a burst of flavor.
- Serve alongside garlic bread for a classic combo.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra richness.
- Include a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
- For a spicy kick, drizzle with red pepper flakes.
- Offer a dollop of ricotta on top for creaminess.
- Serve with a side of marinara for extra sauciness.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
- Pair with sparkling water or a fruity mocktail for a fun drink option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the spaghetti to cool completely before storing.
• Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the spaghetti into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap before sealing the container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Use a microwave-safe dish or stovetop for reheating.
• Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
What is Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delicious, layered pasta dish that combines spaghetti, creamy cheese, and a savory meat sauce. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, making it a convenient option for busy days.
What can I use instead of ground pork in this recipe?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version that still packs a flavorful punch.
How can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti healthier?
To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat spaghetti, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce. This way, you can enjoy the comfort without the extra calories!
Final Thoughts
So there you have it—Million Dollar Spaghetti, a dish that’s not just a meal but a warm hug on a plate! It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-rewarding to make. Gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful recipe, and savor every cheesy, comforting bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked! Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!
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