Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole
Introduction:
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is an indulgent, mouthwatering dish that combines the classic comfort of spaghetti with a creamy, cheesy twist. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole is packed with flavors that will make everyone come back for seconds. With the richness of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese, this dish is both creamy and hearty, complemented by savory ground beef and spaghetti sauce. Whether you’re feeding a large group or craving something satisfying, this casserole will hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce (about 24 oz)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 12 oz cooked spaghetti (about half a box)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spaghetti:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Make the Creamy Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, layer the cooked spaghetti, followed by the beef mixture, and then the creamy cheese mixture. Repeat the layers if necessary.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Methods:
- Sautéing: The ground beef is browned in olive oil to develop flavor and richness.
- Layering: The casserole is built layer by layer to ensure each bite is filled with creamy cheese and savory beef.
- Baking: The casserole is baked to melt the cheese and allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
History:
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a modern take on the traditional baked spaghetti casserole. While baked spaghetti has been a staple in American homes for decades, the addition of cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream elevates it to new heights. This recipe likely emerged in the mid-20th century, when cream cheese began to be incorporated into casseroles and other savory dishes. The dish’s “million dollar” status refers to the luxurious, creamy texture provided by these ingredients, making it feel like an indulgent meal.
Benefits:
- Protein-Packed: Ground beef and cottage cheese offer a healthy dose of protein to keep you feeling satisfied.
- Rich in Calcium: The mozzarella, cottage cheese, and Parmesan provide a significant amount of calcium, important for bone health.
- Hearty and Filling: This casserole is a one-pan meal that offers both carbs and protein, making it a filling and balanced dish.
- Customizable: You can easily add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make the casserole even more nutritious.
Formation:
The formation of this casserole is an art of layering – starting with spaghetti, followed by a rich beef sauce, and finished off with a creamy cheese layer. This layered structure helps the flavors combine and ensures that every bite is a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
Nutrition (per serving, approximately 1/6 of the casserole):
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 27g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Calcium: 200mg
Conclusion:
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is an incredibly delicious and hearty dish that combines the comfort of classic spaghetti with rich, creamy cheese layers. It’s the perfect meal for family gatherings, dinner parties, or a simple weeknight dinner. The layers of cheese, savory beef, and pasta are a match made in heaven, and the flavors meld together beautifully. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or just to enjoy with loved ones, this casserole will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the love, warmth, and comfort this dish brings to the table!