There’s something absolutely comforting about a cheesy, saucy baked pasta. What makes this one stand out is how every bite of the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe bursts with layers of creamy Alfredo, savory meat sauce, and melty mozzarella. It’s the kind of dish that turns any dinner into a celebration.

A white baking dish filled with baked spaghetti layered in three parts: the bottom layer with long, soft spaghetti strands in a light orange sauce, the middle layer holding a chunky tomato meat sauce topped with melted, stringy white cheese that drips down the sides, and the top layer covered in a thick, smooth white cheese sprinkled with small green herb bits. A fork lifts a big portion showing the stretchy cheese and the different layers clearly. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made dozens of spaghetti casseroles, but this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe has a special place in my heart (and my stomach). It’s rich without being overwhelming, and it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, even on a busy weeknight.

Decadent Flavor Layers: The combo of creamy Alfredo and zesty meat sauce gives it a depth of flavor you just don’t get with plain spaghetti.
Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to picky eaters has loved this one at my table.
Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these staples in your pantry and fridge already.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s great for meal prep or bringing to gatherings because it reheats like a dream.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient here plays a key role in making this casserole outshine average pasta dishes. From the perfectly seasoned ground beef to the creamy cheese blend, these flavors come together in the best way. When shopping, look for the freshest garlic and good-quality shredded cheeses—they really make a difference.

Flat lay of cooked al dente spaghetti noodles arranged loosely on a simple white ceramic plate, a mound of raw ground beef on a white ceramic dish, one small whole yellow onion with dry papery skin intact, one whole green bell pepper with smooth shiny skin, a small white ceramic bowl with reddish-brown cajun seasoning powder, another small white bowl with fine pale garlic powder, a small white bowl with light beige onion powder, a small white bowl containing mixed dried Italian seasoning herbs, a simple white ceramic bowl filled with bright red marinara sauce, a half cup block of unsalted butter on a white ceramic plate, four fresh whole garlic cloves with papery skins, small white ceramic bowl with thick heavy cream, a white ceramic bowl heaped with shredded parmesan cheese, small white ceramic bowls with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, a white bowl with shredded mozzarella cheese, a tiny white bowl with finely chopped dried parsley flakes, all ingredients fresh and natural, perfectly balanced symmetrical layout placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Spaghetti noodles: Cooking them al dente ensures the noodles won’t get mushy after baking.
Ground beef: Adds hearty, savory flavor—opt for lean to avoid excess grease.
Onion & green bell pepper: They soften into the sauce, adding sweetness and a bit of freshness.
Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning: The spice combo gives the meat sauce a punch without overwhelming.
Marinara sauce: Be sure to pick your favorite jarred sauce or make your own for the best flavor.
Unsalted butter & garlic: They elevate the Alfredo sauce with rich, aromatic goodness.
Heavy cream: The secret behind that silky smooth sauce coating the noodles.
Parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully and adds savory umami notes.
Kosher salt & black pepper: Key for seasoning both sauces to perfection.
Mozzarella cheese: Provides that irresistible gooey, browned top layer.
Dried parsley flakes (optional): A pretty, fresh touch to garnish and brighten the plate.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I’ve played around with this recipe endlessly, and honestly, it’s pretty flexible. I encourage you to make it your own—add some heat, swap veggies, or try different cheeses to match your taste buds or what’s in your fridge.

Variation: I once swapped ground beef for Italian sausage and added mushrooms, which gave it a smoky, earthy boost—definitely gave the dish a new personality.
Dietary tweak: Use ground turkey for a leaner version or lactose-free cream cheese and milk if you're avoiding dairy.
Seasonal twist: In the summer, throwing in fresh basil or sun-dried tomatoes elevates the flavor wonderfully.
Spice level: If you want some kick, stir in red pepper flakes with the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

A white plate holds a large serving of spaghetti mixed with a sauce that is orange with bits of ground meat and diced onions, adding texture and depth. On top of the pasta, there are melted white and yellow cheese layers, slightly browned and sprinkled with small green herb pieces. Behind this plate, a second white plate with a similar spaghetti and cheese mix is slightly out of focus. To the left, a tall glass filled with iced tea and a lemon wedge is visible on a white marbled surface, and there is a white cloth with blue stripes nearby. The whole setup is bright and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Perfectly

Start by boiling your spaghetti noodles in salted water until they’re al dente—meaning they’re cooked but still have a tiny bit of bite. This prevents the noodles from becoming mushy after baking. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauces.

Step 2: Sauté the Meat and Veggies

Heat a large skillet over medium-high and add your ground beef, diced onion, and green bell pepper. Sprinkle in your Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Break the beef apart, stirring occasionally until it’s browned, and the veggies are soft—usually about 10 minutes. Don’t rush this; the flavors develop best when your beef has a nice, browned sear.

Step 3: Simmer the Meat Sauce

Drain any excess grease from the skillet to avoid a greasy casserole. Then stir in your marinara sauce, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Whip Up the Alfredo Sauce

While the meat sauce is simmering, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add your minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and then stir in parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook this until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens—keep an eye on it and stir often so it doesn’t stick or scorch.

Step 5: Combine Spaghetti with Alfredo, then Layer

Toss your cooked spaghetti noodles into the Alfredo sauce, making sure every strand gets luxuriously coated. Transfer the creamy noodles into your prepared baking dish as the first layer, then spread the savory meat sauce evenly over the top.

Step 6: Top and Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and extra parmesan over the casserole generously. Pop it in the oven at 350°F uncovered for about 15 minutes until the cheese melts and gets just a hint of golden brown—watch it carefully to avoid burning.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle dried parsley flakes over the top if you like a little green freshness and color. Serve warm and watch everyone dig in eagerly!

Top Tip

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that take this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe from good to unforgettable. These tips will help you nail it the first time and every time.

Cook noodles al dente: This is key to keeping the spaghetti texture pleasing after baking—it won’t get mushy or fall apart.
Simmer meat sauce low and slow: Taking time here deepens the flavor—don’t rush it or your sauce might taste flat.
Use fresh garlic in Alfredo: It adds a bright, fresh note that powdered garlic just can’t match.
Don’t skimp on cheese: Quality parmesan and mozzarella make all the difference—you’ll notice it in every gooey bite.

How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Million Dollar Spaghetti - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love topping this casserole with some dried parsley flakes for a pop of color, but fresh chopped basil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes works beautifully too. It adds a bit of brightness or heat, depending on what you’re craving that day.

Side Dishes

For sides, I usually keep it simple with a crisp Caesar salad or steamed green beans tossed with a touch of lemon and olive oil. Garlic bread or warm rolls are a no-brainer to soak up any leftover sauce, making everything extra satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

When I’ve had company, I’ve layered this casserole in smaller ramekins for individual servings. It feels a little fancy but takes no extra effort. Another fun twist is baking it in a cast iron skillet for a rustic look with irresistible crispy edges.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After dinner, I let the casserole cool, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge. It keeps beautifully for 3 to 4 days, so leftovers last through the week.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole successfully by preparing it fully, then wrapping it in foil and a plastic bag before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat. Texture and flavor stay surprisingly good after freezing.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If you need it quickly, microwave in intervals but be aware the cheese might not stay as melty.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of pasta for this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?

Definitely! While spaghetti is classic here, penne, rigatoni, or even rotini can work well because they hold sauce nicely and bake up with great texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if needed.

Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. You can still follow the same steps for the sauces to keep that rich, creamy texture.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

It’s a bit tricky because the creamy Alfredo and cheeses are key to the flavor and texture. However, you can try vegan butter, dairy-free cream alternatives, and vegan cheeses. The result won’t be exactly the same but still tasty with some tweaks.

How long does the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating to enjoy that melty, warm goodness.

Final Thoughts

This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is honestly one of those dishes I keep coming back to because it delivers on flavor, comfort, and ease of prep every single time. If you’re ready to wow your friends or just want a satisfying meal that feels luxurious without the fuss, give this a try. I promise, it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation too!