Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake

Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake is rich, creamy and cheesy, a casserole that tastes like a million bucks. A creamy cheese layer hides between saucy spaghetti layers.

A creamy, cheesy spaghetti casserole with a layer of cream cheese and cottage cheese, beef marinara and melted mozzarella. It's an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultra creamy
• Easy weeknight casserole
• Kid favorite
• Great for potlucks

Ingredients for Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake

• 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (225 g) cottage cheese
• 1/4 cup (60 g) sour cream
• 4 tbsp butter, sliced
• 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven for the meat sauce
• Medium saucepan and whisk for the béchamel
• 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish
• Cheese grater
• Sharp knife and spatula for clean slices

Ingredient Notes

• Cream cheese: Makes it rich.
• Cottage cheese: Adds creaminess.
• Butter: Keeps the spaghetti tender.

Why This Recipe Works

This casserole works because the creamy cheese layer melts into the pasta, making every bite rich and comforting.

The Secret to Creamy Spaghetti Bake

Soften the cream cheese so it spreads easily, and cover while baking to keep it moist.

Full measurements and printable instructions are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Bake

Step 1

Cook spaghetti and drain.

Step 2

Brown beef, add marinara and seasoning.

Step 3

Mix cream cheese, cottage cheese and sour cream.

Step 4

Place half the butter slices in a 9×13 dish, add half the spaghetti.

Step 5

Spread the cheese mixture, add remaining spaghetti and butter.

Step 6

Top with meat sauce and mozzarella.

Step 7

Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) 30 minutes; uncover 15 minutes.

Tips for the Best Results

• Soften cream cheese.
• Cover first.
• Rest before slicing.

Cook’s Notes

Don't be tempted to skip the butter slices: they melt into the spaghetti as it bakes and keep the noodles tender and rich. Make sure the cream cheese is truly soft so it blends smoothly with the cottage cheese and sour cream; a few minutes in the microwave helps if you forgot to take it out of the fridge. Spread the cheese layer evenly so every slice has a creamy middle. If you prefer a firmer casserole that cuts into neat squares, let it rest for 15 minutes before serving. For a crispier top, broil it for the final 2-3 minutes until the mozzarella is bubbly and golden in spots.

Variations to Try

• Use ground turkey.
• Add mushrooms.
• Use ricotta.

What to Serve With It

Serve with salad and garlic bread.

Storage and Reheating

Let it rest 10 minutes for neater slices. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 8-10 minutes to keep the edges crispy.

A Little Background

Million dollar spaghetti became popular as a comforting American casserole thanks to its rich, creamy layers.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Great for potlucks and weeknight dinners.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

Assemble a day ahead or freeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze it?

Yes.

Can I skip cottage cheese?

Use ricotta.

Can I use penne?

Yes.

Why butter?

It adds richness.

How do I reheat?

Cover and bake.

Final Thoughts

Rich, cheesy and comforting, this spaghetti bake is worth a million.

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