Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Mix well. Add the sugar, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix with Dairy: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with sour cream and cottage cheese. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Layer the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly. Top with half of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and another cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Tips for Success
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
- Freezer Friendly: This casserole can also be frozen before baking. Just cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the meat sauce, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a decadent and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With its layers of creamy cheese, rich meat sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this casserole offers a taste of comfort and indulgence in every bite. Enjoy cooking, and happy eating!
This recipe should keep your visitors engaged and provide them with everything they need to create a delicious and impressive meal.