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Irresistible Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe Easy Friendsgiving Comfort Meal

baked million dollar spaghetti - featured image

A rich and creamy baked spaghetti dish featuring a luscious cheese sauce and tender pasta, perfect for Friendsgiving or cozy family dinners. This recipe is easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and full of comforting flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces spaghetti pasta, cooked al dente
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey, browned and drained
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 cup evaporated milk or whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 small chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add 1 pound ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 1 cup evaporated milk (or whole milk), 1 cup tomato sauce, 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar, and ½ cup grated Parmesan. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the cooked spaghetti and browned meat mixture into the cheese sauce bowl. Fold gently until pasta is evenly coated.
  6. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
  7. Sprinkle an additional ½ cup shredded cheddar on top.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and sauce is bubbling.
  9. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to set slightly.

Notes

Slightly undercook pasta to prevent mushiness after baking. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and flavor. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly. Rest dish 5 minutes after baking for easier slicing. Can prepare ahead and refrigerate before baking, adding extra bake time if cold. Freezes well up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked spaghetti, million dollar spaghetti, comfort food, Friendsgiving, cheesy pasta, easy dinner, crowd-pleaser