Million Dollar Spaghetti

Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that combines hearty ground beef, creamy cheeses, and perfectly seasoned marinara sauce tossed with tender spaghetti. This recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners or any occasion when you want something satisfying yet simple to pull together. Every forkful is rich with layers of flavor, from the savory meat to the cheesy, luscious sauce that coats the pasta just right. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a special dish without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this Million Dollar Spaghetti will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a one-pot wonder that delivers big on flavor and comfort. Here’s why it will quickly become one of your go-to meals:

• Easy to make: Minimal prep and straightforward steps mean you can have this on the table in under an hour.
• Rich and cheesy: The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy, indulgent sauce that wraps every strand of spaghetti.
• Perfectly seasoned: Italian seasoning combined with fresh garlic and onion adds depth without overpowering the dish.
• Family-friendly: A classic flavor profile that appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Works wonderfully as a casual dinner or dressed up for guests with a fresh basil garnish.

If you’re a fan of pasta dishes like Blistered Cherry Tomato Basil Spaghetti, this recipe will become a fast favorite in your rotation.

Ingredient Rundown

• 12 ounces spaghetti: The perfect amount of pasta to serve about 4 people.
• 1 pound ground beef: Use lean ground beef for a savory base that’s not too greasy.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and complexity when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic depth and classic flavor.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred or homemade marinara for a rich tomato base.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and balances acidity from the tomato sauce.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully, creating gooey pockets of cheese.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Offers a sharp, nutty finish that rounds out the dish.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A herb blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary to elevate the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the meat and sauce perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic to develop flavor.
• Fresh basil for garnish: Brightens the final dish with a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot: For boiling the spaghetti.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the ground beef and sauté the vegetables.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise amounts of cheese and seasoning.
• Grater: To shred mozzarella and grate Parmesan cheese if using blocks.

Million Dollar Spaghetti Made Stepwise

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Add the Marinara Sauce

Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cheeses

Reduce heat to low. Stir in the ricotta cheese until creamy and evenly mixed. Then add half the mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring gently until the cheeses start to melt into the sauce.

Step 6: Combine with Spaghetti

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet with the sauce and cheese mixture. Toss everything together carefully, ensuring each strand is coated. If needed, add a splash of pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 7: Final Cheese Topping and Garnish

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the skillet briefly to let the cheese melt, about 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

What to Use Instead

• Ground beef: Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Ricotta cheese: Use cottage cheese blended smooth or mascarpone for a richer texture.
• Mozzarella cheese: Try provolone or fontina for a different melting cheese flavor.
• Marinara sauce: Use a chunky tomato basil sauce or a homemade sauce from fresh tomatoes.
• Spaghetti: Swap with any pasta shape like penne or rigatoni for variety.

Author’s Commentary

This Million Dollar Spaghetti has been a staple in my kitchen for years because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. The combination of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses creates a luscious sauce that elevates basic spaghetti and meat sauce into something truly special. The Italian seasoning adds just enough herbal brightness without overwhelming the savory beef and tomato base.

I love that this dish is so adaptable — you can swap in your favorite pasta or cheese, and it still turns out amazing every time. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to feed a hungry crowd with minimal effort.

If you appreciate recipes that bring comfort with a touch of elegance, you might also enjoy the Creamy Tomato Basil Turkey Meatball Pasta, which shares a similar creamy tomato sauce vibe but with meatballs for a fun twist.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Allow any leftovers of Million Dollar Spaghetti to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth before reheating to restore creaminess.

You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to help the cheese melt smoothly again.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and meat mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, cook the spaghetti fresh, then combine and melt the cheese just before serving for the best texture.

Is it possible to freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Million Dollar Spaghetti in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain the creamy texture.

Can I use ground lamb or beef alternatives?

Ground beef works best for the classic flavor, but ground lamb or poultry like turkey or chicken can be used depending on your preference. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

What type of marinara sauce do you recommend?

I suggest a good-quality store-bought marinara or homemade sauce that’s balanced in acidity and sweetness. Look for one with simple, natural ingredients to complement the rich cheeses and beef.

Because You Liked This

• Blistered Cherry Tomato Basil Spaghetti – A fresh and vibrant pasta dish bursting with summer flavors.
• Creamy Tomato Basil Turkey Meatball Pasta – A comforting pasta with tender turkey meatballs and a luscious tomato basil sauce.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Million Dollar Spaghetti hot from the skillet, garnished generously with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired. Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that cheesy, savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or casual entertaining — it’s rich, satisfying, and downright addictive. Dig in and savor every bite of this incredibly delicious, comforting pasta that truly lives up to its name.

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