Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you know the joy of diving into a dish that’s not just tasty but downright comforting-and that’s exactly why the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is a game-changer in my kitchen. This layered spaghetti bake blends creamy alfredo, robust meat sauce, and gooey cheese into one incredible casserole that s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying delicious leftovers. I absolutely love how it hits that perfect spot between rich and cozy, making it a go-to dinner when I want something special without hours of fuss.

Whether you’re welcoming family for a weekend feast or just craving a make-ahead meal that warms up beautifully, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe fits the bill. You’ll find it s a fantastic way to turn simple spaghetti ingredients into something impressive and indulgent. Plus, seeing everyone s happy faces as they dive in always reminds me why this dish is a keeper!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to build layers of flavor-from the savory meat sauce to the creamy alfredo coating the noodles, all topped with melty cheese. I like to buy fresh veggies and quality parmesan for the best results.

• Spaghetti noodles: Go for regular spaghetti cooked al dente so they hold up nicely without getting mushy in the bake.
• Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish rich but not greasy.
• Onion & green bell pepper: These add fresh flavor and a bit of crunch-dice finely so they soften well in the sauce.
• Cajun seasoning: This spice mix gives the meat sauce a subtle kick; if you want it milder, you can reduce the amount.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: They boost the savory profile without overpowering the other flavors.
• Dried Italian seasoning: Essential for that classic Italian herb aroma.
• Marinara sauce: I prefer a jarred quality marinara for convenience-feel free to use homemade if you have it!
• Unsalted butter: Perfect for whipping up that smooth, garlicky alfredo sauce.
• Fresh garlic: Mince well-you ll smell it as soon as it hits the butter, and it layers in fresh pungency.
• Heavy cream: This makes the alfredo sauce luxuriously creamy and perfect for coating the pasta.
• Parmesan cheese: Use freshly shredded if you can-pre-grated can work but fresh melts more smoothly.
• Kosher salt & black pepper: Simple seasonings that balance the sauce perfectly.
• Mozzarella cheese: This melts beautifully over the top, creating that irresistible golden cheese crust.
• Dried parsley flakes (optional): I like this sprinkle for a pop of color and a little herbal brightness.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own depending on what I have at home or dietary preferences-flexibility is the beauty of the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe. Feel free to swap some ingredients or add extras that you love.

• Meat Swap: I ve tried ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option, and it s just as tasty when you add plenty of seasonings.
• Vegetarian Version: Use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils in place of meat to bring earthiness and texture without losing protein.
• Spice it Up: Adding extra cayenne or red pepper flakes amps up the heat, which my family sometimes craves, especially on chilly nights.
• Dairy-Free Twist: I once made this with coconut cream and dairy-free cheese for a friend with allergies-it was surprisingly creamy and delicious.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Cook your spaghetti noodles according to the package directions but stop just shy of fully tender-al dente is key because the noodles will finish cooking in the oven and you want them to hold texture. Be sure to generously salt your pasta water; it s the first seasoning layer!

Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef along with the finely diced onion and green bell pepper. Add in your Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to build flavor as the beef cooks. Once the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables have softened-about 10 minutes-drain off any excess grease and stir in the marinara sauce. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This step really brings the sauce flavors together and thickens it nicely.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

While the meat sauce simmers, melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds-don’t let it brown or it will turn bitter. Next, add the heavy cream, shredded Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir constantly as the cheese melts and the mixture thickens just a bit, creating the luscious alfredo base that will coat your spaghetti.

Step 4: Combine Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce and Layer

Drain your spaghetti noodles and add them right into the pot with the alfredo sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly to make sure every strand is coated in creamy goodness. Transfer this mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then, spoon the savory meat sauce on top in an even layer, creating that wonderful contrast of flavors.

Step 5: Cheese It and Bake

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and a bit more Parmesan cheese across the top-this is the moment that melts into a bubbly, golden crust. Pop the dish into the oven and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and starting to brown at the edges. That aroma filling your kitchen? Pure magic.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once it s out of the oven, I like to sprinkle dried parsley flakes on top for a fresh pop of color. Serve hot and watch everyone go crazy for this decadent yet comforting Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

I always go for a sprinkle of dried parsley flakes on top-it brings color and a gentle herbal note that cuts through the richness. Sometimes I add a little extra fresh cracked black pepper or even a dash of red pepper flakes if we want a slight kick at the table.

Side Dishes

My go-to sides with this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe include a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to brighten things up, or some roasted garlic bread for soaking up every last morsel of that cheesy sauce. Steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans offer a nice fresh contrast too.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this casserole family-style right in the baking dish surrounded by mini ramekins of extra Parmesan, chili flakes, and fresh basil. Guests love customizing their portions. Another fun idea is to layer the spaghetti in individual mini skillets or ramekins for personal servings-makes for a cute presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as satisfying if not more. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to keep that creamy texture intact.

Freezing

This recipe freezes exceptionally well. I portion it out into freezer-safe containers before baking, so I just pop one in the oven straight from frozen, increasing the bake time slightly and covering it loosely with foil. It s a lifesaver for busy weeks!

Reheating

When reheating, I add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce in the microwave or covered skillet. This keeps the pasta creamy and prevents it from drying out or sticking together. Reheating gently is key to maintaining that luscious texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it manages the perfect balance of indulgent comfort and family-friendly ease. If you want a dish that s impressive but totally doable, this is it. Give it a try-you ll love how it brings everyone to the table time and again, and I promise it ll become one of your cherished recipes too!

Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 80 reviews

• Author: Jaden
• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American-Italian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a decadent layered pasta bake featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a creamy homemade alfredo sauce, topped with a flavorful Cajun-spiced ground beef marinara, and finished off with a melted cheesy topping. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners and special occasions, blending rich Italian flavors with a touch of southern spice.

---

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

Spaghetti

• 16 ounces (1 pound) spaghetti noodles (cooked al dente)

Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
• 2 teaspoons cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 24 ounce jar marinara sauce

Alfredo Layer

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 Tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, then set it aside for later. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, diced green bell pepper, cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Crumble the beef with a spoon, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables have softened, about 10 minutes. Drain excess grease.
3. Simmer with marinara: Stir the jar of marinara sauce into the meat mixture. Lower the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow flavors to meld.
4. Prepare the alfredo sauce: While the meat sauce simmers, melt the butter in a dutch oven or large stockpot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then add the shredded parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the parmesan melts and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a rich alfredo sauce.
5. Toss spaghetti in alfredo sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti noodles directly into the alfredo sauce pot. Stir thoroughly so the noodles are fully coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Assemble the casserole: Pour the creamy alfredo-coated spaghetti into the prepared baking dish. Evenly spread the meat sauce over the top of the spaghetti layer.
7. Add cheese topping and bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and the shredded parmesan cheese evenly over the surface. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with dried parsley flakes for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this indulgent, savory spaghetti casserole.

---

Notes

• For best results, cook spaghetti just until al dente to avoid mushy noodles after baking.
• Adjust cajun seasoning quantity to preference if you prefer more or less spice.
• Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for creamier sauce texture and better melt.
• If preferred, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness.
• Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave, but cheese may firm up when chilled.

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (~300g)
• Calories: 580
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 19g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg