Golden, bubbly cheese. Rich, savory sauce. Twirls of pasta layered with creamy goodness. That’s the magic of Million Dollar Spaghetti—and yes, it absolutely tastes like a million bucks.
This isn’t just another one of those basic Pasta Recipes With Spaghetti Noodles floating around the internet. This is the kind of dish that makes people hover near the oven asking, “Is it ready yet?” You get layers of tender spaghetti, flavorful Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella baked into pure comfort. It’s bold, hearty, and unapologetically indulgent.
What makes it special? Layers. Think lasagna vibes—but easier. Think Cheesy Spaghetti that actually delivers on the cheese pull. Think cozy baked perfection without complicated steps. IMO, that’s a win.
Hosting friends? Bringing a dish to a potluck? Need reliable Weeknight Casseroles that don’t stress you out? This Spaghetti Casserole checks every box. It feeds a crowd, reheats beautifully, and tastes even better the next day. FYI, leftovers disappear fast.
It also fits right in with your favorite Pasta Dinners and even competes with classic Beef Casserole Recipes for comfort-food supremacy. The ingredients stay simple, the steps stay straightforward, and the payoff stays huge. That’s why it ranks high among go-to Recipes With Spaghetti Noodles.
Craving an Easy Pasta Dinner that feels special but doesn’t require chef-level skills? You’ve got it. Million Dollar Spaghetti brings rich flavor, creamy texture, and that irresistible golden top—all without overcomplicating your kitchen life.
Grab your baking dish. Preheat that oven. Let’s make dinner feel like a jackpot. 🍝
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s fully heated and ready for baking.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just tender but still slightly firm (al dente). Drain thoroughly and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart as it browns. Once fully cooked, remove excess grease.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir marinara sauce and Italian seasoning into the cooked sausage. Let the mixture gently simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors blend together.
Step 5: Mix the Pasta Layer
In a large bowl, combine the drained spaghetti with ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then toss until evenly coated.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Lightly grease a baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly on the bottom. Add half of the sausage sauce on top, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers once more.
Step 7: Add the Finishing Cheese
Sprinkle grated Parmesan evenly across the top.
Step 8: First Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 9: Final Bake
Remove the foil and continue baking for 15 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 10: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
How to Serve
Dish it out straight from the oven onto plates or into bowls. Pair it with crisp salad and warm garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds color and freshness.How to Store
Allow leftovers to cool completely. Store in an airtight container or tightly covered baking dish in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use spicy sausage for extra heat and depth of flavor.
- Stir in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little kick.
- Fresh mozzarella creates an even creamier, richer texture.
Variations
- Swap sausage for plant-based crumbles or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with cheeses such as goat cheese, provolone, or feta for a different flavor twist.
- Try different pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or ziti if you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute another pasta shape?Yes. Short pasta like penne or rigatoni works very well. Can this be prepared in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve. What sides pair well with this dish?
Fresh salad, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens all complement it nicely.