This Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food — rich, creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection. It combines the heartiness of spaghetti, the savory flavor of Italian sausage, and a luscious cheese layer that makes it taste like a cross between lasagna and baked ziti. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve at gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Meat Sauce
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- ½ medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 (24-ounce) jars marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small cubes
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente, about one minute less than the package instructions. Drain, drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned and crumbled, about 5–7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the marinara sauce, stir, and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, and half of the Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti on the bottom of the dish and dot it with half of the butter cubes. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti. Top with half of the meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining spaghetti, butter, and sauce. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella and the rest of the Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow it to set.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta — it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth texture.
- Allow the baked pasta to rest before cutting for clean, even portions.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Extra Cheesy: Add provolone or fontina to the cheese layer.
- Meat Lovers: Combine sausage with ground beef or pepperoni.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or microwave single portions until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without ricotta?
Yes — substitute more cream cheese or use cottage cheese instead.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or ziti work just as well.
What sides go well with it?
Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Spaghetti lives up to its name — creamy, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and leaves no leftovers behind. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave a satisfying, cheesy pasta bake.