Go Back
–+ servings
Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake

Indulgent Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake That Will Wow You!

Discover the comforting and delicious experience of Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake, perfect for family gatherings and busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 slices
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 1 pound Spaghetti Can swap with penne or rigatoni.

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with turkey or plant-based alternative.
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow onion is preferred.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is recommended.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can be used instead.
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce Do not skip this ingredient.
  • 2 ounces Tomato Paste Can use extra crushed tomatoes if unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Brown sugar adds a richer flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Can use fresh herbs at higher ratios.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

For the Cheese

  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Dairy-free options can be used.
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese is a good substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are alternatives.

For the Garnish

  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Other fresh herbs can also be used.

Instructions
 

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish for easy cleanup.
  • Toss the cooked spaghetti gently into the sauce, ensuring every strand is well coated with the rich mixture.
  • 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.
  • Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and golden on top.
  • After baking, allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Serve with a side of garlic bread for an extra special touch!

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg
Keyword Baked Spaghetti, comfort food, family meal, make-ahead dish, Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake, Pasta Bake
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!