Million Dollar Spaghetti

Name: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 pound spaghetti; 1 pound ground beef; 1 jar (24 oz marinara sauce); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Looking for a pasta dish that feels luxurious yet is easy to prepare? Million Dollar Spaghetti is your answer! This delightful recipe combines layers of spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and a creamy cheese blend, creating a dish that feels like a million bucks. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the details of this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients

1 pound spaghetti
1 pound ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup cottage cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

For 1 serving (approximately 1 cup), this dish contains about 420 calories, 25g of protein, 15g of fat, 50g of carbohydrates, and 4g of fiber.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, adding minced garlic.
Drain excess fat from the beef, then mix in the marinara sauce.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, and Italian seasoning.
In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti at the bottom.
Add half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti.
Spread the cheese mixture on top of the meat sauce.
Repeat with the remaining spaghetti and sauce.
Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, swap ricotta cheese for cream cheese for a richer texture. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based meat alternatives and extra vegetables.

Serving and Pairings

Million Dollar Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread. For beverages, serve it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.

Cooking Mistakes

Not salting the pasta water, which can lead to bland spaghetti.
Overcooking the spaghetti, resulting in mushy noodles.
Using low-quality cheese can affect the dish’s overall flavor.
Skipping the resting time after baking may result in a messy serving.
Not layering ingredients properly can affect cooking and flavor distribution.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Let the dish rest before serving for better texture.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just assemble the dish without baking, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

What kind of meat can I use?

You can use ground beef, turkey, or chicken. For a vegetarian option, try lentils or meat substitutes.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The dish is done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is it necessary to let it rest after baking?

Letting it rest for about 10 minutes allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delightful, comforting dish that combines the best of pasta and cheese in a way that’s sure to impress. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with family or guests, this recipe is bound to become a favorite at your table.