Introduction
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delicious and indulgent twist on the classic spaghetti dish, known for its creamy, cheesy goodness. This mouthwatering recipe combines layers of spaghetti, marinara sauce, and a rich ricotta mixture, resulting in a flavorful meal that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. It’s the comfort food we all crave, with a delightful flavor profile that makes it an instant hit.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For this delightful recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
Spaghetti – 12 ounces
Ground beef or Italian sausage – 1 pound
Marinara sauce – 24 ounces
Ricotta cheese – 15 ounces
Cream cheese – 8 ounces
Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups
Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup
Egg – 1 large
Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley (optional) – for garnish
Prep Time
The preparation for the Million Dollar Spaghetti will take approximately 20 minutes. This includes cooking the spaghetti and preparing the meat sauce mixture.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for this dish is around 40 minutes, making the total time for preparation and cooking approximately 1 hour. This recipe yields about 8 generous servings, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy this delectable dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it reaches a rolling boil, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions become translucent. Then, add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Tomato Sauce and Seasonings
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and sugar to the cooked meat. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld.
Step 4: Mix the Cheeses
In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella cheese, and salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start layering. Begin with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom, followed by half of the cooked spaghetti. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Repeat these layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce on top.
Step 6: Add the Final Touch
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer of meat sauce.
Step 7: Bake the Dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Allow to Cool
Once out of the oven, let the spaghetti sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
This dish can be frozen before baking. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with baking instructions.
Variations
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
Cook techniques
Layering Ingredients
When making Million Dollar Spaghetti, layering is key. Begin by placing half of the spaghetti in the baking dish, followed by a rich layer of the cheese mixture, and finish with the remaining spaghetti. This technique ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
Baking
Baking at the right temperature is essential. It allows the layers to meld together, creating a creamy and flavorful casserole. Ensure you cover the dish at first to prevent over-browning, then uncover towards the end for a beautiful golden top.
Cheese Mixing
Mixing different types of cheese, such as ricotta, cream cheese, and mozzarella, adds depth to the flavor and creaminess of the dish. Ensure all cheeses are at room temperature for easier blending.
Simmering Sauce
Simmering the sauce before layering it into your dish helps to infuse the flavors and thicken the consistency. This technique prevents the spaghetti from becoming too soggy during baking.
Resting Time
Allow the Million Dollar Spaghetti to rest after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Patience will reward you with cleaner slices and better flavor integration.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while the recipe calls for spaghetti, you can substitute it with other pasta types like penne or rigatoni for a different texture.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Million Dollar Spaghetti in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake.
What can I serve with Million Dollar Spaghetti?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or garlic bread to complement the rich flavors.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delightful and comforting dish that combines layers of pasta, cheese, and a rich meat sauce. Its creamy texture and flavorful components make it an instant favorite for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Plus, it’s easy to customize and prepare ahead of time, offering convenience without sacrificing taste. This dish truly lives up to its name by delivering a million-dollar flavor experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Pair your Million Dollar Spaghetti with cheesy garlic bread for that perfect combination of flavors. The bread will soak up the delicious sauce while adding a delightful crunch.
Caprese Salad
Serve a fresh Caprese salad on the side, featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to complement the richness of the spaghetti.
Homemade Meatballs
Enhance the Million Dollar Spaghetti with homemade meatballs, made from a blend of beef and pork and seasoned with Italian herbs for a more robust flavor.
Roasted Vegetables
Add a colorful platter of roasted vegetables to your table. Seasonal veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus bring freshness and balance to the meal.
Caesar Salad
A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan can make a refreshing side dish that cuts through the richness of the spaghetti.
Garlic Parmesan Knots
Include some garlic parmesan knots as a fun and tasty addition to your meal. They are perfect for dipping into the spaghetti sauce.
Chocolate Lava Cake
Finish off your dinner with a decadent chocolate lava cake for dessert, offering a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the main dish.
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