This dish brings warmth and comfort to any table. It’s rich and creamy, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The layers of pasta and savory sausage create a filling meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy enough for beginners to make.

Why You Will Love This Million Dollar Spaghetti

This recipe is a winner for many reasons. It’s simple to prepare, using ingredients you might already have at home. It tastes amazing, with a creamy and cheesy blend that warms the heart. The family will enjoy every bite, making it great for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.

How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti

Making this spaghetti is straightforward. You’ll cook the pasta and sausage, mix in the cheeses and sauce, and layer everything in a baking dish. Just pop it in the oven, and soon you’ll have a bubbling, golden meal ready to serve. It’s all about layering love into the dish.

What You Need

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious spaghetti:

1 pound spaghetti
1 pound Italian sausage
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Million Dollar Spaghetti:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
In a baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture, half of the sausage and marinara mixture, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti mixture and sausage mixture, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with a glass of red wine. For casual gatherings, serve in large portions so everyone can help themselves. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

How to Store Million Dollar Spaghetti

To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the spaghetti for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Recipe Tips

Cook pasta al dente: This keeps the texture just right after baking.
Use low-fat cheese: If you’re watching calories, feel free to swap for lower-fat versions.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Make it veggie: Swap sausage for roasted vegetables for a lighter version.
Layer evenly: This ensures every bite is delicious.

Variations & Swaps

Different meats: Try ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage.
Cheese swaps: Use goat cheese or feta for a unique flavor.
Make it lighter: Substitute whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the fridge before baking. Just cover it tightly.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, cool completely and store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat it?
You can reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave on low power.

What can I serve with this dish?
A side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely. You can also consider serving it with steamed veggies.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute cream cheese or cottage cheese. Both will give your dish a creamy texture.