Million Dollar Spaghetti is a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. This delicious pasta bake brings together the hearty flavors of Italian sausage, a rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses, creating a dish that feels like a hug from the inside. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What makes Million Dollar Spaghetti stand out? For starters, it’s a comforting, one-dish meal that’s as budget-friendly as it gets. In just a little over an hour, you’ll have a bubbling casserole ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners. Plus, it’s an instant family favorite that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Easy to make and satisfying to eat, it checks off all the boxes for comfort food.
"My whole family devoured this dish! It’s now a regular on our dinner table!" – A happy home cook
How This Recipe Comes Together
Let’s dive into how to whip up this delightful dish. You’ll be combining cooked spaghetti with a flavorful marinara, creamy cottage cheese, and mouthwatering sausage before layering it all with delicious mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s straightforward and yields a meal that feels special, even on a regular Tuesday night.
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What You’ll Need
Gather these items for your Million Dollar Spaghetti:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Don’t have ground sausage? Ground turkey or beef works as a tasty substitute. You can also use ricotta instead of cottage cheese if you prefer a creamier texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat until cooked through.
- In a large bowl, combine spaghetti, marinara sauce, cottage cheese, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and cooked sausage.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
These simple steps will guide you to a comforting dish that’s sure to please.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
While this Million Dollar Spaghetti can stand alone, pair it with a light salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a little kick, and don’t forget a glass of red wine for the adults.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Million Dollar Spaghetti can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Freezing is also an option! Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped and use within three months for the best taste.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- When cooking the sausage, don’t rush it. Let it brown nicely to deepen the flavor.
- Feel free to sneak in some veggies like chopped spinach or mushrooms into the mix for added nutrients.
- Always taste your sauce before combining it to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Consider using pesto instead of marinara for a fresh twist or swap out the cottage cheese for ricotta for a creamier feel. You can even top it with fresh basil or different cheeses to suit your taste.
Common Questions
What’s the prep time for Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Prep time is around 20 minutes, making it a quick and easy option for a hearty dinner.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free spaghetti, and you’ll be good to go.
How do I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover with foil to keep it from drying out.
Million Dollar Spaghetti is not just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming experience ready to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction it brings to the table with loved ones!
Print
Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Meat-based
Description
A comforting pasta bake with Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground sausage
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat until cooked through.
- In a large bowl, combine spaghetti, marinara sauce, cottage cheese, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, and cooked sausage.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
This dish pairs well with a light salad or garlic bread. You can add red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg