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Million Dollar Spaghetti

Million Dollar Spaghetti
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Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich, creamy, and cheesy casserole combining tender spaghetti, ground meat, a luscious cheese sauce, and warming spices. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual family meals, this comforting dish is easy to make with simple pantry staples and customizable to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces spaghetti (regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free)

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk

Protein

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey

Aromatics and Seasonings

  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (or dried Italian seasoning)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, taking care not to overcook. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Meat and Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook thoroughly, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and cooked through.
  3. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk, stirring constantly until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Mix in the canned cream of mushroom soup until fully combined for added flavor and moisture.
  4. Combine Everything: Fold the cooked spaghetti into the cheesy meat mixture, ensuring every strand is coated evenly. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Notes

  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense, flavorful cheese sauce.
  • Avoid overcooking the spaghetti; it will finish cooking in the oven and absorb the sauce.
  • Let the casserole rest after baking to achieve a thicker, creamier texture.
  • Try substituting cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor.
  • Mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a varied cheesy texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Million Dollar Spaghetti, cheesy casserole, creamy pasta bake, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/million-dollar-spaghetti/