Print

Creamy Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Easy and Perfect

creamy baked million dollar spaghetti casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A rich and comforting baked spaghetti casserole layered with creamy ricotta, marinara sauce, and a golden cheesy crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340g) uncooked spaghetti (regular or whole wheat)
  • 1 ½ cups (about 360g) full-fat ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage, browned (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes, optional pinch

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Boil 12 ounces (340g) of spaghetti in salted water until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes.
  4. Add ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Let simmer for 5 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Add a pinch of salt and pepper and mix gently.
  7. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti evenly, spread half of the ricotta mixture on top, then half of the sauce and meat mixture. Repeat layers once more, finishing with remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente is best. Drain meat fat well to avoid greasiness. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting. Tent with foil if browning too quickly. Add extra marinara if casserole seems dry before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked spaghetti, ricotta casserole, creamy pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal, cheesy casserole

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/creamy-baked-million-dollar-spaghetti-casserole-recipe-easy-and-perfect/