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Comforting Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe with Crispy Cheese Crust Easy and Perfect for Dinner

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A hearty and satisfying baked spaghetti with a creamy sauce and a golden, crispy cheese crust. Perfect for cozy dinners and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) dried spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef, lean or regular
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 ounces (115 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups (about 200 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk, whole or 2%
  • 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Boil 8 ounces (225 grams) of spaghetti in salted water until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound (450 grams) of ground beef until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  4. Add 1 medium chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with the beef. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 4 ounces (115 grams) softened cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Add 1 cup (240 ml) milk, 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Stir until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the beef sauce mixture. Add 1 cup (100 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mix well.
  8. Pour the spaghetti mixture into a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish and spread evenly.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup (100 grams) shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If using, add 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
  10. Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
  11. Switch the oven to broil on high and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to achieve a golden brown and slightly crunchy top.
  12. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushy noodles after baking. Use sharp cheddar for best flavor and crust. Let the casserole rest before serving for easier portioning. Broil carefully to avoid burning the cheese crust. Can be made ahead and refrigerated; add extra baking time if baking from cold. Variations include vegetarian substitutions, spicy additions, and gluten-free pasta options.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked spaghetti, million dollar spaghetti, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, easy dinner, crispy cheese crust

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