Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delicious and hearty dish that combines pasta with rich flavors, making it a favorite for family dinners and potlucks. With layers of spaghetti, savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this meal not only tastes amazing but is also easy to prepare. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish!
Why make this recipe?
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a filling and satisfying meal. It’s simple to make and uses common ingredients, so you likely have them on hand. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish for busy evenings or to impress your guests at gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds! 🍝✨
How to prepare Million Dollar Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti 🍜
- 1 lb ground beef 🥩
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce 🍅
- 15 oz ricotta cheese 🧀
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🍃
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- Fresh parsley for garnish 🌿
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add garlic and seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
- Mix sauce and beef: Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Layer the ingredients: In a baking dish, spread half of the cooked spaghetti as the first layer. Then, add half of the ricotta cheese, followed by half the meat sauce. Add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat layers: Repeat with the remaining spaghetti, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. 🌿
How to serve Million Dollar Spaghetti
Serve your Million Dollar Spaghetti hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds a touch of flair! 🍽️
How to store Million Dollar Spaghetti
To store leftovers, let the Million Dollar Spaghetti cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months. ❄️
Tips for preparing Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Make sure to drain the ground beef well to avoid a greasy dish.
- Using fresh mozzarella gives a nice gooey texture, but shredded works just fine.
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground beef for a mix of sautéed veggies or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat sauce for a bit of heat.
- Cheesy Delight: Increase the amounts of ricotta and mozzarella for an extra cheesy dish.
FAQs
1. Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
2. Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
3. What can I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Pair it with garlic bread, a green salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Enjoy cooking and indulging in this scrumptious Million Dollar Spaghetti! 🍝💖