Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich and indulgent baked pasta dish combining al dente spaghetti noodles coated in a creamy homemade Alfredo sauce, layered with a flavorful Cajun-spiced ground beef and vegetable marinara, and topped with a generous blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, this hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole delivers comfort and luxury in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Spaghetti
- 16 ounces (1 pound) spaghetti noodles (cooked al dente)
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 24 ounce jar marinara sauce
Alfredo Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside for later use. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Cook Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, finely diced onion, finely diced green bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Break the beef apart with a spatula and cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables have softened, about 10 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
- Simmer Meat Sauce: Stir the marinara sauce into the meat mixture, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: While the meat sauce simmers, melt the unsalted butter in a dutch oven or large stockpot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Toss Spaghetti in Alfredo: Add the cooked spaghetti noodles directly into the Alfredo sauce. Toss well to ensure all noodles are evenly coated with the rich, creamy sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Transfer the Alfredo-coated spaghetti into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Spoon the meat sauce over the top, covering the noodles.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat sauce layer, then top with the additional shredded parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle dried parsley flakes on top for a fresh, herby finish if desired. Serve hot, enjoying this decadent and flavorful Million Dollar Spaghetti.
Notes
- This Million Dollar Spaghetti has become a viral sensation due to its rich, comforting flavors and filling nature, making it a perfect dinner that everyone loves!
- For a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning.
- Using freshly shredded cheeses ensures better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
- Leftovers reheat well and make great next-day meals.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 887 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 1244 mg
- Fat: 59 g
- Saturated Fat: 33 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 183 mg
