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Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake

Indulgent Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake That Will Wow You!

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake is a comforting and indulgent dish that combines layers of pasta, savory sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 12 oz Spaghetti Can swap with penne or rigatoni

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb Ground Beef Turkey or plant-based alternative can be used
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow onion preferred
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic recommended
  • 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be used
  • 15 oz Tomato Sauce Key ingredient for richness
  • 6 oz Tomato Paste Use extra crushed tomatoes if needed
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Brown sugar adds richness
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil Fresh herbs can be used at a higher ratio
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

For the Cheese

  • 16 oz Mozzarella Cheese Dairy-free options can be used
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be substituted
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can substitute

For the Garnish

  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Other fresh herbs like basil also work

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • Boil Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for 4-5 minutes. Add in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, approximately 3 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
  • Prepare the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste into the skillet. Add sugar, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer on low for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  • Preheat the Oven: While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish for easy cleanup.
  • Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Toss the cooked spaghetti gently into the sauce, ensuring every strand is well coated with the rich mixture.
  • Layer the Bake: In the greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture followed by dollops of ricotta, a generous sprinkle of mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat the layering process for extra gooey goodness.
  • Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and golden on top.
  • Rest and Garnish: After baking, allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Optional: Serve with a side of garlic bread for an extra special touch! You can also experiment with different cheeses.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 32gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword Baked Spaghetti, comfort food, Easy Dinner, Make-Ahead, Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake, Pasta
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