Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Servings: 6–8

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 cup sour cream

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup butter, sliced (plus extra for greasing the dish)

1 package (16 oz) spaghetti

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.

Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the meat sauce:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) with the diced onion until browned.

Drain excess grease.

Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Stir in the marinara sauce.

Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Prepare the creamy mixture:

In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and softened cream cheese. Mix until smooth.

4. Assemble the casserole:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.

Layer half of the cooked spaghetti in the dish.

Dot half of the butter slices over the pasta.

Spread the entire cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti.

Top with the remaining spaghetti.

Dot with the remaining butter slices.

Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top.

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.

5. Bake:

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

Let it rest for about 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy!