Print

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Million Dollar Spaghetti
Print Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish featuring a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, sharp cheddar, and savory ground meat combined with tomato sauce. This comforting and indulgent baked recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, delivering a warm and satisfying meal with a luxurious texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles

Dairy and Cheese

  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)

Protein

  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey

Sauce and Vegetables

  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce or Rotel
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or paprika

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling salted water and cooking your spaghetti noodles until they are al dente. Drain them well and set aside, ready to absorb that creamy sauce.
  2. Prepare the Meat and Aromatics: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or chosen protein over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
  3. Mix the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese and sour cream until melted and smooth. This creamy base forms the heart of the sauce.
  4. Combine with Cheese and Tomato: Next, add shredded sharp cheddar cheese and your tomato sauce or Rotel. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is evenly mixed.
  5. Layer and Bake: In a baking dish, combine cooked spaghetti with the creamy meat sauce. Top with additional cheddar cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

  • Use Sharp Cheddar: It melts well and adds the perfect tangy flavor for richness.
  • Drain Pasta Thoroughly: Avoid watery sauces by draining spaghetti completely before mixing.
  • Cook Slowly: Low heat helps cream cheese blend smoothly without clumping.
  • Season Well: Taste frequently and adjust salt and spices to balance the rich flavors.
  • Let It Rest: After baking, allow a few minutes to help the sauce thicken and flavors settle.
  • Variations: For a vegetarian option, replace ground meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Add jalapeños or hot sauce for heat, or substitute dairy products with dairy-free alternatives as needed.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze in portions. Reheat gently, adding milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Million Dollar Spaghetti, creamy spaghetti, baked spaghetti, comfort food, cheesy pasta, ground beef pasta, easy dinner recipe

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/million-dollar-spaghetti/