Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti
A creamy and hearty spaghetti dish topped with gooey melted cheese, perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti Serves as the base, providing satisfying carbs.
- 1 lb ground beef Adds protein and a hearty flavor.
Sauces and Creaminess
- 1 jar pasta sauce Gives depth with a touch of acidity.
- 1 cup alfredo sauce Delivers a creamy richness that ties everything together.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Optional, for added creaminess and texture.
Cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded Brings the meltiness that everyone craves.
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder Infuses savory notes throughout the dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adds a comforting, herby flavor.
- to taste salt and pepper Enhances all the other tastes.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Cooking and Assembling
- Mix the cooked spaghetti with the pasta sauce, alfredo sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl.
- Fold in the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese (if using), and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
Baking and Serving
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns and allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve hot and enjoy the gooey goodness!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.