Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

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Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole: A Family Favorite Recipe for Every Occasion

Spaghetti casserole is one of those classic, comforting dishes that never go out of style. The “Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole” is the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness, making it a favorite for families everywhere. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, feeding a crowd, or simply preparing a meal that the entire family will enjoy, this dish has all the right ingredients to bring comfort to the table. In this article, we dive deep into the steps, ingredients, and tips that will make your version of this casserole the best it can be.

Why Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Is So Irresistible

The secret behind the name “Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole” lies in its rich and savory flavors combined with the heartiness of pasta and cheese. This dish features layers of tender spaghetti, seasoned ground beef, flavorful sausage, and gooey mozzarella, all baked to perfection in the oven. But what truly elevates the taste is the special combination of herbs and spices like thyme, basil, garlic salt, and sugar, which give the casserole a unique and irresistible flavor profile.

This dish not only offers a comforting home-cooked experience but also offers a visual appeal, making it the perfect dish for both family dinners and gatherings. Its ease of preparation ensures that you can have it on the table in no time, but with a flavor that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Ingredients Needed for Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Before you dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, and you likely already have most of these items in your pantry. Here’s a rundown of the key ingredients:

For the Spaghetti Base:

  • Spaghetti Pasta – The foundation of any great spaghetti casserole. Choose a high-quality spaghetti that holds up well when baked.
  • Egg (1 large) – This will help bind the pasta and create that creamy texture that makes the casserole so irresistible.
  • Milk (½ cup) – Used to create the creamy base along with the egg.
  • Garlic Salt (1 teaspoon) – For that classic savory, garlicky flavor.
  • Sugar (1 teaspoon) – A small touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
  • Thyme (1 teaspoon) – A fragrant herb that pairs beautifully with the beef and sausage.
  • Basil (1 teaspoon) – Adds freshness and a burst of flavor.

For the Meat Sauce:

  • Beef (½ kilo) – Ground beef is a classic choice for the sauce, adding richness and texture.
  • Sausage (½ kilo) – Adding sausage enhances the flavor and gives the dish more depth.
  • Spaghetti Sauce – A great base to tie everything together. Choose a robust tomato sauce for the best results.
  • Tomato Juice (1 spoonful) – Adds a bit more moisture and enhances the flavor of the sauce.

For the Topping:

  • Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, grated) – The cheese that melts beautifully and forms a golden, bubbly crust on top of the casserole.
  • Fresh Basil – For garnishing and adding a fresh burst of flavor just before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get cooking. Follow these steps to create the perfect Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the casserole will cook evenly and get that beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil a large pot of water and cook the spaghetti according to the instructions on the package. Once it’s cooked to al dente perfection, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to reserve some of the pasta water in case you need it later.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Mixture

While the pasta is cooking, grab a large mixing bowl and beat together 1 egg, ½ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of garlic salt. This mixture will add flavor and creaminess to the pasta, making it more luscious when baked.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Egg Mixture

Once the pasta is drained, pour it into the mixing bowl with the egg mixture. Stir well to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 5: Grease the Casserole Dish

Grease your casserole dish with a generous layer of ghee (or butter if preferred). This helps prevent the casserole from sticking and ensures that the pasta stays tender.

Step 6: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and sausage, breaking them apart as they cook. As the meat browns, add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and 1 teaspoon of basil. Cook until the meat is tender and fully browned, which should take about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Add the Sauce

Once the meat is cooked, strain any excess fat, and then add spaghetti sauce and 1 spoonful of tomato juice to the skillet. Stir well to combine, and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 8: Layer the Casserole

Now it’s time to layer the casserole. Pour the pasta mixture into the greased casserole dish, then spoon the meat sauce over the top. Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Step 9: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole into the preheated oven and bake it for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the pasta to absorb the sauce.

Step 10: Add Cheese and Bake Again

After 15 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle 2 cups of grated mozzarella cheese on top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a slight golden brown color on top.

Step 11: Garnish and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives it time to set, making it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with fresh basil for a vibrant and aromatic finish.

Tips for Perfecting Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

1. Choose High-Quality Pasta and Meat

The key to a truly delicious casserole lies in the quality of the ingredients. Select a sturdy spaghetti pasta that can hold up to the sauce and baking. Similarly, use high-quality beef and sausage for the best flavor.

2. Don’t Skimp on the Cheese

Mozzarella is the star of the topping, so don’t be shy with the amount. A generous layer of cheese will create that beautiful melty texture and enhance the overall flavor.

3. Customize the Sauce

Feel free to make the spaghetti sauce your own. Add extra herbs like oregano or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. A dollop of ricotta cheese in the layers also adds an extra creamy touch.

4. Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and makes it easier to serve without the sauce running everywhere.

Why You’ll Love Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s perfect for family gatherings, parties, or as a satisfying weeknight dinner. The combination of flavors, textures, and cheesy goodness makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish—simply prepare it earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.

The beauty of Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can even experiment with different meats, such as adding ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner version. No matter what, the end result will be a hearty, comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.

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