Million Dollar Spaghetti

Why This Recipe Works

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser because it combines comfort food favorites into one delicious dish. The creamy ricotta blends perfectly with the savory Italian sausage and rich marinara sauce, creating layers of flavor that keep everyone coming back for more. Plus, it’s easy to put together, making it a great choice for busy families or when hosting friends.

Why you should try this recipe

This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re feeding a large group or just craving some hearty pasta, Million Dollar Spaghetti hits the spot. It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

How to make Million Dollar Spaghetti

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Equipments Needed

• Large pot for boiling spaghetti
• Large skillet for cooking sausage
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Spoon for mixing and layering

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until cooked through; drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Layer half of the spaghetti mixture in a baking dish, followed by the sausage mixture, then the remaining spaghetti mixture.
7. Top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to serve Million Dollar Spaghetti

Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti hot from the oven. You can slice it into squares or scoop it onto plates. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy this warm, cheesy dish with your family and friends!

How to store Million Dollar Spaghetti

To store leftovers, let the spaghetti cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it will last for about 2-3 months.

Tips & Tricks

• Feel free to add vegetables, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to the sausage mixture for extra nutrition.
• If you like a bit of spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
• To make it even creamier, try mixing in some shredded cream cheese with the ricotta.

Variations & Substitutions

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage for a lighter option.
• Swap out the marinara sauce for a different pasta sauce, like Alfredo, for a unique twist.
• You can also use gluten-free spaghetti if you’re avoiding gluten.

FAQs

1. Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just cover it and then bake when you’re ready to serve.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the Italian sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or just load it up with more veggies.

3. How do I know when it’s done baking?
It’s ready when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.

Print