Looking for a meal that makes the whole family cheer? Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti is your answer! This dish layers hearty spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and a blend of cheeses for a dish that’s rich in flavor. It’s easy to make and packed with good ingredients. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this warm, tasty masterpiece. Let’s dive into the secrets of making your own delicious baked spaghetti!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Dish: This baked spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
- Delicious Layers: The combination of flavors from the meat sauce, ricotta, and melted cheeses creates a delightful layering of taste in every bite.
- Feeds a Crowd: This dish serves 6-8 people, making it an excellent choice for feeding a larger group without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil for garnish
Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti starts with a few simple yet key ingredients. First, we need spaghetti. It forms the base of this dish. Use 12 ounces for a nice, hearty portion. Next, we use 1 pound of ground beef. This adds rich flavor and protein.
Onion and garlic bring great taste. I like to use 1 small onion, diced, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. They blend well into the sauce. Speaking of sauce, we need tomato products. Grab 1 can of tomato sauce and 1 can of diced tomatoes. They work together to create a delicious, savory sauce.
Now, let’s talk cheese. You’ll need 2 cups of ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. These cheeses give the dish its creamy and cheesy goodness.
To spice things up, we add seasonings. Use 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning and, if you like heat, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finally, we’ll garnish with fresh basil. It adds a pop of color and flavor. With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a comforting and tasty meal that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Spaghetti
To start, you need to cook the spaghetti. Boil water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Then, add 12 oz of spaghetti. Cook it until it is al dente. This means it should still be firm but not hard. It usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once it is done, drain the spaghetti in a colander. Set it aside to cool for a moment.
Making the Meat Sauce
Next, we make the meat sauce. In a large skillet, brown 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat. Stir it well so it cooks evenly. Once the beef is browned, add 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook them until the onion is soft and clear. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. After that, stir in a 15 oz can of tomato sauce and a 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes. Season the sauce with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, a pinch of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors blend nicely.
Assembling the Layers
Now, it’s time to layer the dish. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix them well until smooth. Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Start with half of the cooked spaghetti as your first layer. Then add half of the meat sauce. Next, spread half of the cheese mixture. Repeat these layers with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheese. Top everything with the leftover mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This will create a rich and cheesy crust.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Meat Sauce
To make a great meat sauce, simmering time matters. I like to let it cook for about five minutes. This helps the flavors blend well. You can taste it and adjust seasonings if needed. If it tastes flat, add more salt or Italian seasoning. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. Just remember, less is more when it comes to spice.
Cheese Tips
Choosing the right cheeses is vital. I use ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for the best flavor. Each cheese adds a unique taste and texture. For melting cheese, I recommend using freshly shredded mozzarella. It melts smoother than pre-shredded. Mix the cheeses well for an even layer in your dish. This ensures every bite is rich and creamy.
Baking Advice
Covering your dish with foil helps it cook evenly. It traps steam and keeps the pasta moist. After 25 minutes, remove the foil. This step is key for getting a golden top. Bake for another 15 minutes. You want that bubbly, golden cheese on top. Let it cool for about ten minutes before serving. This helps the layers set nicely.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley as a garnish not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your spaghetti just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Layering Technique: When layering, ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed to achieve consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for meal prep.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
You can make Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti meat-free. Just swap the ground beef for a plant-based option. Crumbled tofu or lentils work great. You still get a hearty texture and full flavor. For cheese, use ricotta and mozzarella made from plants. They melt well and taste amazing.
Specialty Ingredients
Adding gourmet cheeses makes this dish special. Try using fresh mozzarella or burrata. These cheeses add a creamy richness. You can also throw in roasted vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms add great flavor and texture. Just roast them before mixing them in.
Sauce Alternatives
Switching up the sauce changes the taste. Marinara gives a classic Italian flavor. Pesto adds a fresh, herby touch. You can also mix sauces. Try half marinara and half pesto for a fun twist. Each option brings a new taste to the table.
Storage Info
Refrigerating Leftovers
To store your baked spaghetti, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic will work well. Make sure to let the dish cool first. This helps keep the moisture inside. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days. Label the container with the date. This way, you can track freshness.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze baked spaghetti for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into single servings for easy thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. It will last about three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then bake at 350°F until hot.
Meal Prep Suggestions
You can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the spaghetti and meat sauce as usual. Then layer the ingredients in your baking dish. Cover it well and keep it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to eat, just bake it as directed. This saves time on busy nights. For best results, use fresh ingredients.
FAQs
What is Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti?
Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti is a hearty pasta dish. It combines layers of spaghetti, meat sauce, and creamy cheeses. The layers create a rich and savory flavor. The dish is baked until golden and bubbly. It serves as a perfect family meal. The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses makes it extra creamy. This dish is filling and sure to impress anyone at the table.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. First, cook the spaghetti and meat sauce as directed. Let them cool before storing. You can layer the ingredients in your baking dish. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake it as directed. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What sides go well with Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti?
Several sides pair well with this dish. Here are some great options:
– Garlic bread: A classic choice that complements the meal.
– Caesar salad: Fresh greens add a nice crunch.
– Steamed veggies: Broccoli or green beans work well.
– Antipasto platter: A mix of olives, cured meats, and cheeses adds variety.
These sides enhance the meal and make it even more enjoyable.
How can I make it spicier?
To add heat to Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti, try these tips:
– Increase the red pepper flakes: Add more to the meat sauce.
– Use spicy sausage: Replace ground beef with spicy sausage.
– Add hot sauce: Drizzle it over layers or serve on the side.
– Incorporate jalapeños: Chop some fresh or pickled jalapeños into the layers.
These tweaks will give your dish a spicy kick that you’ll love!
You learned how to make Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti with simple ingredients and steps. We covered everything from cooking pasta and making meat sauce to perfecting cheese layers. Remember to mix flavors, try new ingredients, and store leftovers correctly. Whether you enjoy a classic or a vegetarian twist, this dish can fit your taste. Now, get cooking and share this recipe with friend
