Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

If you re looking for a meal that s rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new go-to. I absolutely love how this dish layers creamy alfredo-coated noodles with a zesty, well-spiced meat sauce and a melty cheese topping-it just feels like a big warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests without stress, this recipe always delivers that wow factor.

When I first tried this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe, I was blown away by how simple ingredients combined into something so luxurious and satisfying. You ll find that it s perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for weekend gatherings. Plus, once you get the hang of it, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs without losing any of its signature magic.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe comes together to build layers of deep flavor and comforting creaminess. When you shop for this, I recommend looking for fresh veggies and good-quality marinara to really boost the dish s taste.

• Spaghetti noodles: I always cook mine al dente to hold up under the rich sauces without getting mushy.
• Ground beef: Use lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease, which can water down the sauce flavors.
• Onion: Finely diced gives it the chance to melt into the meat sauce, adding sweetness and texture.
• Green bell pepper: Adds freshness and a slight crunch that balances the richness.
• Cajun seasoning: This is the secret punch of spice that gives the meat sauce that extra oomph.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: For layering savory flavor with ease.
• Dried Italian seasoning: Classic herb blend that ties the sauce together.
• Marinara sauce: A good-quality jar sets a strong base for the meat sauce, no need for extra fancy prep.
• Unsalted butter: For the creamy alfredo base; unsalted gives you control over seasoning.
• Fresh garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic makes all the difference in aroma and flavor.
• Heavy cream: The richness that turns ordinary pasta into a decadent dish.
• Shredded parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and depth in the alfredo and topping.
• Kosher salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning the sauces just right.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that irresistible golden crust.
• Dried parsley flakes (optional): A little garnish that brings freshness and color.

Variations

I love that the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe is so versatile-you can tweak it to match whatever you re in the mood for or what you have on hand. Feel free to play around and make it your own!

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: I ve swapped in ground turkey to lighten it up without losing flavor, especially when paired with extra herbs.
• Vegetarian Version: Use sautéed mushrooms and zucchini instead of meat, with the same spices for a hearty twist.
• Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes if you like it hotter-I always add a pinch extra!
• Dairy-Free: I ve had success using coconut cream and nutritional yeast for the alfredo to make it dairy-free and still creamy.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti al Dente

Start by boiling your spaghetti noodles just until they re al dente – that means tender but still firm to the bite. I find that overcooked noodles get lost under the rich sauces and turn soggy once baked, so keep a close eye on your timing according to the package. Drain them and set aside while you get the sauces ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with finely diced onion and green bell pepper. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks, stirring occasionally until the beef is fully cooked and the veggies soften-about 10 minutes. Don t rush this step; the flavor builds here! Drain excess grease to keep the sauce from being oily, then stir in your jar of marinara along with the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld all those bold flavors.

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. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant – this little step makes a big difference! Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir in parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens ever so slightly-it ll coat the spaghetti beautifully. Don t rush the thickening; patience here means a velvety sauce.

Step 4: Combine Spaghetti and Alfredo, Layer the Dish

Toss your cooked spaghetti noodles into the alfredo sauce, stirring gently so each noodle is luxuriously coated. Scoop this creamy pasta into your greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then spoon the rich meat sauce over the top in an even layer – the contrast of the layers is what makes this recipe shine!

Step 5: Cheese It Up and Bake

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and a bit more parmesan over the top. Pop the dish into a preheated 350°F oven and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes, just until the cheese melts into that irresistible golden blanket. If you want, sprinkle dried parsley flakes at the end for a pretty, fresh touch. Serve warm and get ready for the compliments!

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

I usually garnish with dried parsley flakes for a simple pop of color and a hint of fresh herb flavor. Sometimes I like to add a little more freshly grated parmesan just before serving because it melts beautifully on top. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few fresh basil leaves can also brighten the plate if you want a fresh finish.

Side Dishes

My favorite sides to pair with this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe are a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette and garlic bread to mop up all the creamy sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus add a nice balance as well. If you want to keep things simple, a side of sauteed spinach does the trick and adds color.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to bake the Million Dollar Spaghetti in pretty ramekins for individual servings-so fun and instantly impressive at the table. You could also top each serving with a fresh basil leaf and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and a hint of heat. Serving alongside a glass of chilled white wine takes it up another notch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let leftover Million Dollar Spaghetti cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully. Just be sure to cover it so it doesn t dry out or absorb other fridge odors.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well! After baking and cooling, I portion it into freezer-safe containers or foil pans, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, I thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the oven to preserve that creamy texture and cheesy goodness.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until bubbly and heated through-usually about 20 minutes. If you re in a hurry, microwave portions on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between to re-incorporate sauce and keep the pasta creamy. Adding a splash of cream or milk before reheating helps revive the alfredo sauce s luscious texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe isn t just spaghetti-it s layers of creamy, cheesy comfort mixed with a satisfying, spiced meat sauce that will quickly become a family favorite. I love sharing this dish with friends because it s approachable yet feels special every time. Give it a try, and I promise you ll enjoy the easy prep, bold flavors, and that melty cheese magic that makes million dollar feel just right. You re going to want to keep this one in your regular dinner rotation!

Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 77 reviews

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

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Description

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a decadent layered pasta casserole combining creamy alfredo-coated spaghetti noodles and a savory Cajun-seasoned meat marinara sauce, all topped with a generous blend of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Baked to bubbly perfection, this flavorful dish is perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike.

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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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside. Begin cooking the spaghetti noodles according to package directions until al dente.
2. Cook 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 Italian seasoning. Break the beef into crumbles and cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
3. Simmer meat sauce: Drain any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the marinara sauce and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
4. Make 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. Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine spaghetti and alfredo: Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the alfredo sauce and stir well to coat all noodles evenly.
6. Assemble casserole: Pour the alfredo-coated spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread the meat sauce evenly over the top.
7. Add cheese topping and bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and garnish with dried parsley flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Notes

• For best results, cook pasta just until al dente to avoid overcooking during baking.
• Drain excess grease from the cooked beef to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning according to preferred spice level.
• Fresh parsley can be used instead of dried for garnish if available.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly before serving.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/8th of casserole)
• Calories: 620 kcal
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg