Million Dollar Spaghetti

Name: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb ground beef; 1 jar (24 oz marinara sauce); 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Million Dollar Spaghetti, a dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with a decadent blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and savory meat sauce. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, promising to impress with every bite. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to whip up this crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1/6 of the dish) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. Note that these values may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Stir in the marinara sauce, mixing well, and let simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese, and half the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Spread half of the meat sauce in a greased baking dish.
Add the spaghetti mixture on top of the meat sauce layer.
Pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti layer, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version. Additionally, swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a different texture, or use gluten-free pasta if preferred.

Serving and Pairings

Million Dollar Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine also complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the spaghetti can lead to a mushy texture.
Not draining the beef can make the dish greasy.
Skipping the simmering step for the sauce can result in a bland flavor.
Using low-quality cheese affects the overall taste.
Not letting the dish cool slightly before serving can cause it to fall apart.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Let the dish sit for 10 minutes before serving to set.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before baking.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it when ready to serve, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Is Million Dollar Spaghetti vegetarian?

Not in its traditional form, but you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting the meat with vegetables or plant-based proteins.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container, and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How can I make it spicier?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or incorporate spicy sausage instead of ground beef for added heat.

What sides go well with Million Dollar Spaghetti?

Complement this dish with a simple salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to balance its richness.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe for your next gathering, and watch as it earns its name by making everyone feel like a million bucks!