Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti is creamy with a melty cheese center, topped with meat sauce and extra bubbly cheese.
It may seem like there is a lot of meat and cheese going on in this 9×13 pan, but we frequently get 12 portions out of the meal, 9 if we’ve got a lot of hungry people to serve. The flavors are rich enough that a smaller portion is enough to satisfy.
If you’re looking for alternative flavor ideas to the classic meat sauce here are some fun options we’ve gone with in the past:
- Chunks of cooked chicken with a creamy Alfredo sauce (optional you can also toss in frozen peas)
- Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant and red onion in place of meat.
- Spinach, lemon juice and lemon zest with a creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Pepperoni, chopped bell peppers, onions and sliced olives in place of meat for a combination pizza flavor
I frequently make this Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti in a double quantity so I can have one tray to serve and one to freeze. For making ahead the only difference in the directions would be to follow all the steps until it says to put it in the oven. At that point, top with foil and freeze. To serve I highly recommend you remove from the freezer the day before you plan on serving so it can defrost in the fridge. If you don’t remember to remove it, you can expect your cook time to be about an hour long at least. But look at the beautiful tray of Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti you’ll be left with:
I usually let the Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti cool for about 5-10 minutes when it comes out of the oven. I find it is easier to cut into perfect squares using my favorite silicone spatula and in our house everyone is obsessed with the shape of it. I tried serving with tongs once and you would’ve thought I’d committed a crime. Can’t blame them though, it does look pretty cool cut neatly.
Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti , cooked two minutes shy of directions and drained
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion , chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic , minced
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste (I used 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper)
- 6 cups Quick and Easy Marinara Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese , softened
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- parsley , chopped (optional as a garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
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In a large skillet add the beef, onions, garlic, salt and pepper into the pan and cook on high.
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Once browned, turn off the heat, drain the liquid left in the pan and mix in one cup of the marinara sauce.
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Add the cooked spaghetti to the remaining 5 cups of the marinara sauce and toss to combine.
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Mix the cream cheese and 2 cups of mozzarella cheese in a bowl.
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Add half the pasta/sauce to the bottom of a 9x13 pan.
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Add the cream cheese mixture and top with the remaining pasta/sauce mixture.
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Add the meat sauce mixture on top of the pasta and top with remaining cup of mozzarella cheese.
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Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
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Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly
So, I put a few of my own twists on this and it turned out great! I used two cups of sauce to mix with the pasta instead of just one. I also jazzed up my meat sauce with some red wine, maple syrup and my secret ingredient fish sauce (don’t knock til you tried it lol)! The added some heavy whipping cream to the cream cheese mixture so it wasn’t quite so dry. And finally, I topped the casserole with a mixture of garlic herb butter, panko bread crumbs, minced Italian parsley and grated pecorino Romano cheese.
Made it as per described in directions.
First time doing a meal like this, but from responses it will not be the last.
Made this last nite. Delicious!!! I used both ground beef and pork sausage. I no longer use the pre-shredded cheese in any flavor (cheddar, mozzarella, taco blend) because I’m not a fan of the preservatives they use to keep it from clumping. I had some BelGioioso Pre-Sliced Fresh Mozzarella and that makes pizza, lasagna and this dish so good. I just cut it into some chunks and mixed it in with the cream cheese. I’m anxious for the leftovers tonight with salad, rolls and a glass of wine!
Thanks for sharing. I’m anxious to try more of your recipes. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
You are so kind! Thank you for the review! Happy Thanksgiving!
how to make this spaghetti for my Thanksgiving dinner with the cream cheese and sour cream in it and I’m just fascinated about it thank you
This was absolutely delicious!!! My kids tore it up. I am making it again tonight for all their cousins!!!! Thank you for a great go to meal!!
Can you use fat-free cream cheese or would that ruin the recipe?
I’d opt for a low fat vs fat free.
This was really good! I made the recipe exactly as written (ok, ok – except for the bits of cream cheese I couldn’t stop myself from eating before adding it in). Adding this to my list of future recipes!
We tried this tonight and loved it. I think the cream cheese is a great idea and gives a super flavour. Thanks for another great meal.
This looks wonderful. Can I use meatball on top instead of mixing beef into the sauce.
I’ve not tested that before. If you decide to try, I’d love to know how it turns out.
What would be a good substitute for cream cheese in this recipe? None of us are big fans of cream cheese, except maybe a smear on a bagel. Ricotta, cottage cheese, and marscapone are no-go’s as well. Thanks again! Dig your recipes!
Hmm, I’d have to say sour cream. Be sure to do it in spoonfuls, don’t spread too thin. It should still be delicious! Thank you for the kind words about the recipes!
Made this tonight but didn’t have enough mozz or any cream cheese, so used 4 oz goat chz with some mozz and mostly cheddar jack. Also forgot to add the salt/pepper. It was amazing! Served with hawaiian rolls/butter. Everyone is going for thirds….
Can I half the recipe? Would that be a half box of pasta?
You can use the slider tool in the recipe card to adjust all the ingredients down to half. Enjoy!
Can I use whipped cream cheese its all I have?
I’m so sorry I missed this comment. Yes, I’ve used cream cheese with this recipe and it’s been delicious!
soooo good! much better than plan noodles. very easy to make .
Can I make/assemble in the morning and bake that evening?
Yes, just keep refrigerated. Enjoy!
Do you cut cream cheese in pieces or what? Can’t wait to try it
You’ll just add dollops of the mixture throughout. Enjoy!
Tastes really good; however it took more than 30 minutes to heat it through.
well yeah it does it said to cook it 30 mins w/ foil than 10 w/o foil. 30+10=40
30<40
I really enjoyed this recipe! I had made baked spaghetti before, but couldn’t find the recipe and so I am glad I found yours. I wanted the recipe to include the cream cheese because it makes that cheese layer extra special! Thank you I always enjoy your recipes!!
That’s so kind of you to say, thank you so much!
I don’t have any foil to cover the glass pan with. Would it work if I put a cookie sheet on top? I can’t get out to the store.
It’s better than nothing. Good luck!
Fabulous! Made this for our Sunday dinner. Everyone loved it. I would definitely make this again.
Hello, I don’t have cream cheese nor ricotta. Will it taste alright? And can’t I add chopped red,green, and yellow peppers to the dish? Thanks
It will taste delicious but won’t have that creaminess with out. Enjoy!
Banging, so freakin GooOooood. Thanks again for this recipe. It will be my KEEPER. ???????
Love, love, love! My husband had three helpings and said it’s his new favorite spaghetti! Thanks so much for a delightful dinner!
Yay! That is the best compliment ever! Thank you!
Thank you for the wonderful recipe cannot wait to try will be making tonight I do not have cream cheese can it be made without cream cheese? I do have a little ricotta cheese how much can I substitute same amount? Thank you again so much for the wonderful recipe
Sorry I missed this! Yes, the same amount would be fine. I hope you enjoyed the recipe.
If I make this tonight so I can cook it tomorrow afternoon for a party and just keep it in the fridge, what would you suggest for the cook time?
You might only need to add an additional 10 minutes of cook time if baking right out of the refrigerator. Enjoy!
Can make the million dollar spaghetti and then keep it warm in a crock pot to take to functions?
Sounds perfect!
Sure you can! One caveat though…put the cheese on the top…cook your base, put it in, then melt last cheese on top. If you use an older, or taller pot, add cheese layer every 3 inches of noodles, last on top. Retired chef!
I made this as an extra dish for Christmas dinner. It was amazing! Everyone loved it. We didn’t have any leftover and it will be a new tradition for our Christmas menu. Thank you!
Can’t wait for my recipes!
It’s in the oven now,I added some Basil and Sour Cream to the middle cheese layer and some Black Olives…
And I used Rao’s Marinara…
This is delicious! Especially with the homemade marinara sauce. So much so that this is the only spaghetti my family wants now. I have spoiled them. They said jar sauce doesn’t taste as good now. Thanks for the recipe ?
…never mind…found it! Your system is outstandingly logical!
Glad you found it 🙂 Thanks!
Where is recipe for “quick and easy marinara sauce’?
Here is my recipe for Easy Marinara sauce: https://dev.dinnerthendessert.com/easy-marinara-sauce/
Hope this helps!
My husband and I loved this recipe! I easily cut the recipe in half for a 9×9 baking dish. I used a jar of Newman’s Own Marinara to save time and it was excellent! I served it with garlic bread and a vegetable. We’re having it again this weekend! Thank you so much for this recipe, it’s easy and delicious!
Glad you liked it!!
I made this recipe along with your ‘Quick and Easy Marinara Sauce’ and my family loved it! Simple and delicious! Will definitely make it again. Thank you for the recipe!
I’m so glad you liked it! It’s very delicious and even better with the homemade marinara!
I understand that you can freeze the unbaked pan, but I need to know if you can freeze leftovers is serving size portions? Thanks.
Certainly. You would reheat by thawing and baking for about 15 minutes for best taste.
I mixed the cream cheese and mozzarella with my hand.
I made this last night and it was wonderful. I followed the directions and didn’t change anything. I missed the cream cheese and mozzarella with my hand so it melted perfectly… Thanks Sabrina
So glad you enjoyed! Thanks for the feedback!
This is so delicious. I have made it countless times. I don’t change a thing.
Hi! I’m making the now…can you substitute angel hair noodles for the spaghetti noodles? If so, how long should I cook the angel hair. It’s doesn’t take as long to cook as regular spaghetti noodles. Thank you!!!!
I’d like to know this too
You’ll cook the noodles 2 minutes less than what the package states but the bake time for the oven will stay the same. 🙂 Enjoy!
Is the sodium count accurate.? It is loose for the recipe but the sodium for your cause is way higher.
Hi! The recipe was delicious! Was just curious if you have ever frozen it and if so how well it freezes. Thank you!!
This dish is perfect for freezing!
Awesome! When you freeze dishes do you just wrap with Saran Wrap or foil??
I like to cover this with foil when freezing.
This recipe is FANTASTIC! Not only does my family love it but It’s a crowd favorite for game days or any occasion where I’m asked to bring a dish. Only 2 tiny changes I made: 1) made in slightly larger pan 2) sprinkled 2 cups (instead of 1) of shredded mozzarella on the top to make it extra cheesy.
HI Sabrina–It looks like this one has a lower carb content—I have to be carb conscious because of the severity of my diabetes–I can eat a smaller portion and more salad—I will try this one first–thanks so much–
I’ve made it with Spaghetti Squash before…Very carb friendly …
Making this tonight. Do you think fresh Mozzarella would go well instead of shredded?
Sure 🙂
This is delicious! Next time I’ll try to spread out the cream cheese mixture a bit more because some bites were too cheesy. Will make this again!
Thanks for dropping by to let me know! I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
Can I use this image if I give credit to your blog?
Can you please email me with your request contact @ dinnerthendessert .com
Thank you
Can I use regular pasta sauce??
Linda
Yes 🙂
Thank you!
Is it OK to use a marinara sauce from the grocery store instead of your recipe – I am lazy! If so, which one would you recommend?
You can use whatever sauce you prefer! No worries 🙂
Rao’s Marinara is the best I’ve tried other than making it from scratch using San Marizano Tomatoes with Basil already in the can…
This is always a big hit! Delicious!
I made this recipe. I is great!!
Me and my kids love this recipe but I mix the noodles, cream cheese, motz, and sauce all together with the noodles. Then you don’t get big chucks of cream cheese.
Omg! So simple and delicious! As others stated, I was worried about the cream cheese, but it turned out to be among my favorite parts of this recipe! It added a creaminess and tang that elevated the flavor. Shared with my family and brought a 1/2 tray to my parents who loved it! Can’t imagine anyone not liking it. I used a premium jar marinara and put a little extra garlic in the meat but outside of that, followed the recipe to a tee. It was perfect and the leftovers kept getting better! Thanks so much for sharing this recipe. Truly worth a million bucks!!!
Thanks, Nancy! I’m so happy to hear how much you all loved it!
Made this tonight & it was delicious! Followed recipe as written with the exception of adding mushrooms. Will definitely be making again. Thanks for sharing!
What did we do wrong? We didn’t have a creamy center. I expected the cream cheese to melt, but it did not. Other than that we like the recipe.
Oh no! You want to make sure that your cream cheese is softened enough before mixing it with the mozzarella. That’ll ensure that it will melt properly. Hope this helps for next time. Glad you still enjoyed it!
This may be the absolute best meal I’ve ever made!! Thank you so much for this awesome recipe! I made it with Italian sausage & added some canned mushrooms. It was super simple to put together but tasted like I had toiled in the kitchen for hours! Thanks again for a true keeper! I can’t wait for leftovers tomorrow!!
You’re welcome, Nerita!
Can this be made up the night before, with everything put in the 9×13 dish and wait to bake until the next day?
Yes 🙂
We made this the other night. The cream cheese layer didn’t melt. Any ideas what we did wrong?
Next time, try making smaller dollops of cream cheese as the layer. Also, enusre that the cream cheese is softened before adding. Hope this helps!
I’ve made this baked spaghetti several times since I found it online omg I can tell you it is beloved by many my family my coworkers especially, I usually make to big lasagna pans of it and freeze one (by the way this freezes very well mine has been in there for a over a month and it comes out after unthawing just as good as the day I baked it). This week for the company Italian themed pitch in I’m making 4 lasagna pans of it because everyone wants this. I can tell you add lib to the recipe by adding mushrooms, green peppers, and Italian sausage to the sauce and I use a few different kinds of cheese parmesan and mild cheddar. This is a robust meal I love it its heaven in a pan, thank you so much for sharing this wonderful recipe you made so many happy!
You’re so welcome!
Just made this recipe for the first time and wow. Grandma likes it…hubby loves it and grandma devoured it. I love how the option of using parsley as a option for flavor really bring it to a mouth watering meal. The smell the colors the texture and the taste are amazing thank you so much. Definitely will make this recipe ahain.
Can I substitute the cream cheese with cottage cheese? If so, How much cottage cheese would you recommend to mix in with mozzarella?
I wouldn’t recommend cottage cheese. If you want to use something other than cream cheese, I would recommend ricotta cheese as a better substitute. Hope this helps!
Trying this tonight! Didn’t have enough spaghetti noodles so substituted for campenelle and penne…had partial boxes of both. Added some shredded parmesan cheese to the mozzarella as well as an egg…like in a lot of lasagna recipes. Turned out fantastic! Really love the addition of cream cheese…might have to add that to my actual lasagna!
My family absolutely loved this! This will become a regular staple as our meal rotation! I made the homemade marinara with it and I think that and the cream cheese is what made this recipe so good!
Easy great recipe that the whole family will love.
I tried this recipe for my Italian themed Christmas dinner – it was soooo wonderful!!! It is very hearty!! Since my guys are huge meat-eaters, I did use 2 pounds of ground beef instead of one and a 6 ounce pack of sliced pepperoni. Spaghetti has never tasted so good!! Thank you so much!!
I made this for the first time for an Italian themed party. It was really good. My family that likes my regular spaghetti said it was great and I should make it more often. I followed the directions exactly as stated. Thanks a million!
Yay,so glad you loved it, thank you for coming back to leave a review! And on Christmas day, I so appreciate it. 🙂
Made this for a fellowship at church and nothing was left over. Very delicious! I used Italian cheese blend and Parmesan cheese mixed together for topping. Broiled for a few minutes before pulling out of oven. Will be making again.
I’m so glad you guys enjoyed it! Thanks for coming back to let me know!
Loved it
This dish is amazing! I have made it so many times and every time it is delicious and full proof. I use jarred sauce, and always split it between two pans and freeze one. I have served this for dinner parties and people just love it! Thank you 🙂
Hello! I want to make this for Christmas to have as a side dish. We’re eating around 2pm so I’d like to make ahead the night before. Should I make and freeze it or can I pre make it and put in the fridge until the next day and if so, how long should it bake for?
You can put it in the refrigerator and then bake the next day. It might only take 15 minutes longer baking coming straight from the fridge. Enjoy!
I use Paul Newman’s Marin ara Sauce for a fasre, easier recipe. I get in and out of the kitchen as fast as I can as a senior caring for a parent with dementi a, and having guardianship of 8 month old and 2 1/2 year old grandsons. Anything that is fast and has some nutritional value works for me!!!!
YES, we keep his pasta sauce on hand too for quick and easy meals when we aren’t cooking from scratch. We love the taste and the ethics behind the company. I’m also with you about fast and nutritional, and you certainly have your hands full, that is definitely a houseful. Good for you for cooking at home, that is a serious commitment to make to your family’s health. <3
What are their ethics at Paul Newman? Love their stuff btw.
Denise, 100 pct of proceeds from all of Paul Newman’s products go to charities. His salad dressings are foosntoo!
Can I used Fideo pasta instead of regular spaghetti. Fideo is cut spaghetti.
Sure 🙂
Outstanding!!!
Great recipe my family and friends love it. I did a little twist to it to fit us better like more sauce and cheese.
To freeze: bake first?
I would recommend freezing it before baking it. When ready to bake, let it thaw out overnight in the refrigerator and then bake. Enjoy!
This looks delish!! The only thing I had trouble with was spreading the cream cheese mixture as a layer? It just clumped up and a mess of noodles and cream cheese. Just curious what you did? I
It’s such a delicious dish! Next time, try putting dollops of the mixture as a layer vs spreading it on. It will melt into a flatter layer and you’ll get yummy pockets of it. Hope this helps!
I want to make this for a dinner party. I plan to make it the day before, but don’t plan to freeze it. Should I just follow all directions except for putting it in the oven? Should I cover and refrigerate and cook about an hour before serving?
Yes, that’ll work 🙂 Have a fun party!
I just made this yesterday for my family. It was amazing and super easy to put together, made it in no time flat! My family just kept raving about how delicious it was and said it was a keeper and oh…to PLEASE make it again, which I most definitely will. Even my 13 yr old great-nephew said it was GOOD. Quick note…I used Angel Hair pasta, just my preference instead of spaghetti. Thank you for sharing your wonderful recipe… ?
I love when I hear that everyone loved it! Makes me so happy!!
Is the 6 cups of marinara 1 batch of the recipe or do you have to double it to get that amount?
6 cups of marinara is the amount you’ll need to make one of these.
How much marinara does the recipe for marinara make though? The one on your site.
It makes about 4 cups of sauce. 🙂
I tried this recipe and it turned out delicious! We will definitely be having this again.
Thanks, Zoe!
Can you prepare this early then just bake before serving ?
Yes 🙂
Worth the extra effort
So glad you thought so, Erin! Thanks for the 5 stars!!
Delicious, perfect just as written! I didn’t change a thing except substituted ground deer for beef. Everyone in my family loved it!
Really good, my husband loved it, thanks!!!
You’re welcome, Claudette!
Made it tonight AMAZING
Thanks for the 5 stars, Linda!
4.5 stars (would have been 5, if pan depth was specified)
Did not fit in corning/pyrex baking dish. Thought this would be bland but was I surprised! The cream cheese gave it all that was needed. Not too wet, not too dry and reheats well. It’s a keeper !
This was fabulous!!! Stuck during Hurricane Florence trying to make dinner for three very picky kids and extended family. Everyone loved it! Served with a bowl of extra sauce and was a complete winner. Thanks so much!
So glad everyone loved it! Continue to stay safe!
Tasted great. Loved the cream cheese mozzarella middle. I used store bought marinara but next time I will use the recipe from this site.
Sabrina I’m thinking of substituting ricotta in for cream cheese… thoughts?
Yes, that’ll work. 🙂
I’d like to try this recipe but I’m pregnant and can’t have soft cheeses like cream cheese. Can you recommend how to alter this recipe to accommodate that? Thanks!
Congrats on your pregnancy!
I think Philadelphia cream cheese is on the ok list as long as you check it’s pasteurised. You can also use ricotta cheese.
I dont have an oven. Do you think this would work on high in a crockpot, or do you think it would come out to mushy? I have an oblong crockpot.
I’ve never tried it but I don’t see why it wouldn’t work. If you decide to try, I’d love to know how it turns out.
6 cups of sauce left it very dry so it was a big fail for us tonight. It would be good if really moist and gooey. If I try it again, I wil expect to use at least 8 cups.
Absolutely delicious. I made a meat version (for my hubby and son) and a meatless version (for daughter and myself). My daughter ate 2 helpings. So good! Thank you for sharing!
You’re welcome Logan!
This was absolutely delicious! All my family, ages 1 to 78, loved it! Thank you! Made this to take to my family after losing a family member and his widow said that was the first thing she had ate in 6 days. This food is good for the soul! Thx for sharing
Thanks Cassandra!
Can’t wait to try this, looks wonderful
Made this tonight and hubby loved it. Said it was “very cheesy”. A good thing! Thanks for the recipe!
So glad it was a hit with your family, Laila!
This looks amazing. Question: can this be made ahead of time? Can I make it the night before I need it? Like prepare it then bake it the next day?
Thanks!
Yes 🙂
I’ve made a similar pasta dish a long time ago. I used a egg noodles and barely pre cooked them, before layering with other similar ingredients. Egg noodles didn’t become overcooked and “mushy”. Better texture. I also used sour cream, cottage cheese, parmesan cheeses mixture, with mozzarella om top. Just a different recipe to try !
I made this using my own pasta sauce and baked it a little bit longer. It was a big hit. Hubby said next we have pasta make it like this!!! Super easy
Amazing Recipe… My Family Loved it!
I made ‘‘tis and it was great but I used 3 jars of Newman’s sausebutthe mixture with the cheese and cream cheese was very lumpy and very difficult to spread nonetheless it worked ok. Next time I will use ricotta instead of cream cheese. That’s my opinion.
Where is the recipe for the marinara sauce?
Here it is 🙂
https://dev.dinnerthendessert.com/easy-marinara-sauce/
Hello! If we are to make this with chicken and Alfredo sauce, would we still add the cream cheese mix in the middle?
Yes. 🙂
Ive made this several times and it is delish! I was wondering though can u sub ricotta cheese for cream cheese? How do you think that will affect the taste?
That would be a great substitution!
This is my 3rd time making this dish my whole family loves it! the first time I made it I used a 13×9 and it was too much for my family of 5, so now I make two 8×8 pans that I get from the dollar tree and freeze one and cook one. I love that every time I make this dish its like a two for one; not only is it amazing but then I’m also getting a free night of cooking for another day! SO glad I found this recipe! Thanks 🙂
Such a great idea splitting it up into two meals! I’m happy to hear how much your family enjoys it!
This is delicious! Do you think this would turn out good without the meat? I have a friend I’m making this for and she would prefer it to be meatless.
Of course!
Making now!?cant wait to eat it!
I use 2 lbs. of hambuger and put it into my largest pan.
Nice recipe, but you never never put foil on top of tomato sauce, it will corrode the foil and ruin your dish, you should always use plastic wrap under the foil, or another type cover. Perhaps this hasn’t happened since you put in freezer immediately after covering but if left in fridge or on a counter it will happen.
Would it be possible to make this with Vodka Sauce instead of marinara sauce?? I have some at home so I didn’t know if you have tried this.
I would change the flavor a bit but I say if you have it on hand, go for it!
Made this tonight and it turned out amazing!! Had to stop myself from eating more and more! I added Parmesan with mozzarella! Will use this recipe for years to come!!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for coming back to let me know!
Can you make this spaghetti with mild chedder cheese, instead of Mozzarella, don’t like stringy cheese.?
Of course, just know that it won’t have the flavors of the traditional dish.
If subbing ricotta cheese for the cream cheese, would it be the large tub size?
You’ll want to use 8 oz of ricotta.
Really enjoyed this million dollars spaghetti. My husband loved it also. Makes a lot. One thing. How do you spread the cream cheese and cheese on the noodles. Do you let your first?
I’m so glad you all enjoyed it! To answer your question, I don’t really spread it on per say. I drop it in scoops on top. You can find a video on my facebook page of this recipe to help you out too.
If I use Italian sausage do I still use all of the required seasonings that the recipe calls for?
I keep everything else the same but feel free to customize it to your family’s liking. Enjoy!
Thank you for this recipe. It was so easy, (way easier than lasagna) and my guests loved it. It is now my new go to dinner party main dish.
Thanks for dropping by to let me know! I’m so glad everyone enjoyed it!
Could you omit the cream cheese? I have every other ingredient on hand. Thanks!
You can substitute with ricotta cheese. Enjoy!!
Just made this and is was SO GOOD!! My picky 9 year old asked for seconds!
You made my day! Anytime I can get the little ones to enjoy something I feel like I have won the lottery! Thanks for taking the time to come back and let me know!
If freezing, do I cook it before freezing OR just mix it all together and freeze it?
You can do it either way 🙂 If you decide to freeze before cooking, I recommend thawing it in the refrigerator the day before placing in in the oven. You might need to add additional time to the cook time based on how thawed out it is. Enjoy!!
I have made this many times thanks so much for posting it
Have you tried this with meatballs? I have turkey meatballs on hand and was wondering if this would work?
Thank you
I’d probably chop up the meatballs a bit for more even serving, but sure I see no problem with using meatballs!
Ohh my. Great recipe, family truly enjoyed this! Even the pickiest oven baked spaghetti eater enjoyed. Thanks for sharing.
So glad everyone enjoyed it, Jay! Thanks for the 5 star rating!!
WHAT KIND OF MARINARA DO YOU USE?
This is the one I use (https://dev.dinnerthendessert.com/easy-marinara-sauce/) but you can use any kind you like.
Can you tell me what does the cream cheese do to this dish? and is it ok if I just use regular pasta sauce instead of making from scratch
It just gives it pockets of creaminess. You could also use ricotta cheese if you’d like. Store bought pasta sauce can be used for this too. Definitely a time saver! Enjoy!!
Ugh! New job requires me to cook either the night before or 5 am so fam can can a nice dinner before I get home. Here is my question:
Should i bake this dish in its entirety? Or prepare it to the point of not baking it and have one of the kiddos (both teenager) pop it in the oven the following evening?
First off, congrats on the new job! You could honestly do it either way but personally, I would put it all together the night before and have one of your teens put it in the oven to finish. It’s going to need to bake in the oven a little bit longer from being in the refrigerator overnight (maybe an additional 10 min). Enjoy!!
This was absolutely delicious!! Substituted cream cheese with cottage cheese 🙂 and added 2 eggs and parmesan to spaghetti.
Thank you for the suggestions! So glad you enjoyed it!
When freezing, how long would the cook time be after unthawing it in the fridge?
After unthawing, it would be the same cook time.
I add two beaten eggs and do white and yellow cheddar with parmesan. Sometimes I add some buttered bread crumbs for a little crunch! So amazing! Best left overs!!!
Thanks for the suggestions! So glad you love it!
I made 5 trays for our high school varsity football dinner and it was a hit! Delicious and filling,I served it with garlic bread and salad (sadly untouched!). Thanks for the amazing recipe!
How awesome…about them loving the dish not the untouched salad part!! I’m so glad everyone enjoyed it! Thank you so much for the 5 star rating!
Turned out excellent. Thank you for the recipe!! 🙂
You’re welcome! Thank you for the 5 star rating!!
Made this last night and it was delicious! Like most I was hesitant about the cream cheese and mozzarella, but it was awesome! Thanks for the recipe! Next time I will make two and freeze the other! I’m a busy mom of three and constantly going and everyone loved this recipe!
So glad everyone enjoyed it!
I’m not quick to award 5 stars but this recipe was so deserving! And for the sheer fact that my finished product looked EXACTLY like the original picture. And, it was nothing short of delicious. I made half the recipe but used 3/4 lbs of ground beef. It fit perfectly into a 7×11 pan. I also used a jar of high quality marinara. When I do make a full batch, I’ll use 2 lbs of beef and bake in the next size up from a 9×13 pan. Otherwise, no substitutions are needed, as it’s divine in flavor and texture. I agree that allowing it to stand for 10 minutes prior to serving (which I did, much to my impatient husband’s chagrin) is a must. Thank you for such a lovely, simple recipe. This is truly so easy, which is what busy cooks are seeking! 🙂
Yes, waiting is the hardest part but I’m glad you were able to convince your husband it’s worth the wait, haha! I’m so glad you loved it and thank you for the 5 stars 🙂
And tomorrow night will be your Mongolian Beef. Stay tuned…
Have you tried a smaller pan? Perhaps 2 8x8s instead of 1 9×13? I’m making this as we prep some freezer meals before baby. And I think 9×13 is too big for just my husband and I, without having dayssss of leftovers.
You could definitely do it that way! Congrats!!
So glad I read your suggestion for the two 8×8’s pan. How long did you cook them? I’d like to cook one and freeze one. Can’t wait.
I would check it around 30-35 minutes when baking.
This looks great! If I freeze it after I make it, how long and at what temperature do I cook it in the oven? Same as in the recipe?
Nevermind! Just saw Kelsey’s question!! Can’t wait to make this. 🙂
What would you suggest for the cook time if it is frozen? 🙂
Probably around an hour, at least.
Love this recipe. It just makes A LOT for our family of 3. I often half it and we still have leftovers!
Great tip though I do love the leftovers too!
Just wondering if this can be put together a day in advance and wait till next day to bake? I would like to make it to take to a friend whose father passed away. But I want to put it together tonight and take it to them refrigerated tomorrow so they can put it in the oven.
So sorry this got caught in my spam folder. Yes, you can either put it together ahead of time to bake the next day or even bake it and refrigerate it to reheat.
Which method do you recommend for reheating on day 2?
Sprinkle a little water over it, cover and reheat using either a microwave or oven to the desired tempature.
Serious success in my house tonight! One bite & my daughter said “OMG!” And I’m no cook! I used our favorite store bought sauce & it worked perfectly. I use onion powder because I hate onions. Tasted fine. I have a problem with cream cheese. Just not my thing. But it was still yummy! Could I try this with ricotta & mozzarella mixed instead? Not sure if you’re still checking comments?!
You definitely could use ricotta and mozzarella! So you glad you all enjoyed it!
How much ricotta ch see?
8 ounces of ricotta 🙂
Made this & both the hubby and I loved it! This is a keeper, thanks for sharing! ?
You’re so welcome Ellie! Thanks for coming back to let me know!
Hi! I’m planning on making this for a group of about 40, but I wanted to make this, a white and chicken based version, and a veggie version. Did you change anything else when you tried this with chicken and alfredo sauce? Or the spinach and lemon juice/zest and alfredo sauce? If so, what did you change? Thanks so much for the help!!
If you’re doing the alfredo sauce version and you find your alfredo sauce is sort of thick I’d add a bit of milk to make it thinner. Remember as it bakes it is going to thicken so start with a much looser consistency. With the veggie version depending on the vegetable I wouldn’t add more time. If you add things like carrots or potatoes then yes but if it is things like peas, or bell peppers or squash I wouldn’t bother altering the time. Just keep the pieces small, maybe 3/4 inch or smaller.
Im a little disappointed but it’s totally my fault. I got lazy & bought just any cheese & cream cheese that I found at my local Hispanic market. Turns out, neither of them melted. AT ALL!!!!!! It looked nothing like it did on the picture above. It’s ok though, this won’t be my last try. Will be making sometime in the near future. ?
Oh, bummer 🙁 Definitely try it again with the correct ones and I promise the wait will be worth it!
I dont have marinara on hand but i do have spaghetti sauce. Can i use that instead
Yes, you can make that substitution. The flavor may change a bit due to extra seasoning that might be in the sauce but nothing drastic. Enjoy!
Love!
Next time instead of cream cheese-which WAS very good- I am thinking of trying a ricotta/marscapone mix. My son loved this and he eats NOTHING! thank you for a wonderful stress free dinner, finally!
Yay! You made my day! Anytime I can get kids to enjoy something I feel like I have won the lottery!
Is this a whole box of spaghetti noodles? Wasn’t sure if it’s a pound cooked or uncooked.
Yes, a whole box of spaghetti. Sorry if it was confusing.
Sorry a little confused @ step4. Are you saying mix the oils and juices from ground beef with 1 cup marinara??? If so too late, I already poored juiced off w/o using.
You did it right 🙂 You want to drain the oils out and then add the marinara. I hope you enjoyed it!
Looks delicious! I don’t have cream cheese on hand now and I need to make a pasta dish in the am. Do you think I could substitute ricotta? Sorry I wouldn’t try to change this amazing recipe if I had cream cheese in the fridge. Can’t wait to try it!
Sorry the message got snagged in the spam filter. I would use ricotta in a pinch too, it may not melt as well but I am 100% sure it would be delicious!
I made this for dinner last night and it was a hit. We have 4 picky eaters and they ate it up and even asked for seconds. My husband who has never ate baked spaghetti before even went back for more and had a total of 3 plates.
Awesome!! Anytime the troops are happy I take it as a complete and utter win!
I’m eating this right now and it is delicious! Thanks for sharing!
Awesome! thank you so much for coming back and letting me know how it turned out!
How do you spread the cream cheese mixture? I found it to be quite thick even after it softened
I find if I have issues with that a quick zap in the microwave and a bit of water mixed in make it easy to spread, but I usually have no trouble with it when it is totally softened.
Made this for dinner last night and it was delicious! Definitely adding this recope to the frequent flyer list. Thanks for sharing!
Where do the recipes get saved. couldn’t find.
If you’re talking about the “save” button inside the recipe card, I’m currently using a service called BigOven – you need to have an account with them to save it there. I think most people prefer to save my recipes using Yummly or Pinterest though! 🙂
I press down and copy paste to a memo note app I’ve downloaded
i have to say i was a little bit skeptical when i first saw this recipe with cream cheese in it, then i tried it well i experimented on my aunt first everyone loved it. definitely making it again taste like lasagna with half the effort.
I’m glad it was a hit with your family!
This was so delicious ! Definately tastes like lasagna but half th effort . Will be making this again !
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for coming back to let me know!
Does one batch of sauce make the six cups needed for this recipe
So sorry, this comment got snared in the spam filter! Yes!
This looks incredible! Do you know if zucchini noodles would hold up in the oven for someone aiming to save a few carbs?
I think if you cook for less time, don’t try and get the browning on the top for the zoodles and it would probably turn out great.
I’m making this tonight with spaghetti squash instead of noodles. I’ll report back how it turns out!
Thanks!
Can I just use my fave store bought marinara?
Absolutely 🙂
Mine didn’t look as pretty as yours but oh my goodness did it taste good! My (very) picky 4 and 7 yr olds ate it without complaint! Yay! Thanks for sharing such a great recipe!
Thanks! I’m happy it was as big a hit with your family as it was with mine!
Saw this recipe on Facebook today while contemplating what to take to a Halloween party tonight. Had to improvise some of the ingredients but so far so good. We’ll see how it goes tonight.
This was amazing! I was leery about the cream cheese, but I gotta say that totally completed this. It made it so rich and creamy. Definitely a 5 star keeper!!!
It’s in the oven as I write this. It’s pretty much over flowing the pan, so next time I’ll probably use a bigger pan. I’ll post later with results. I know it looks Devine. And I did add mushrooms to my sauce. Can’t wait to eat now!
What is Quick and easy Marinara Sauce.
It’s another recipe from my blog – you can find it here: //dev.dinnerthendessert.com/easy-marinara-sauce/
Can I just use regular marinara?
absolutely!
I want a big plate of this spaghetti!
I love this idea! It seriously looks like a million bucks with all that amazing cheese!
This look soooo good! My kids would be all over this!
Holy cow, does this look good! Love the idea of adding some roasted veggies too. Yum!
This looks terrific. Comfort food at is best!
Soooooo… THIS is going on my meal plan for next week! 🙂 Holy cow, this looks absolutely amazing.
Thanks, Carrie!
Oh my goodness, all those noodles and cheese! Delish!
This is perhaps the perfect family dinner. I love your strategy to make one and freeze one. That’s winning.
If you’re doing all the effort, why not just add a little bit extra to have a meal later on, right?
That looks amazing! I love any kind of baked pasta – especially one as cheesy as this! Definitely have to try this next time I’m craving some cheesy baked pasta!
I’ve always wanted to try making a sort of baked spaghetti but they always look so dry. Yours looks absolutely perfect and gooey. Making two to have one to freeze is a great idea.
I’m glad I gave you a recipe that finally meets your standards! Enjoy!
You won’t believe this, but I am here looking for tips to achieve a very dry, baked spaghetti! I frequent a good, local cafeteria and always look for their baked spaghetti that has set on the line too long and probably looks unappetizing to most people. When rather dry, the flavors are concentrated and really delicious, to me. When the same stuff is “wet,” it has zero appeal to my palate. Am I all alone on this?
Nope, not at all. If you add 75% of the sauce, add a couple extra tablespoons of tomato paste and bake uncovered you’re going to find what you’re looking for 🙂 The tomato paste will help concentrate those flavors for you even more!
Oh my gosh that’s better than any plate of spaghetti I’ve ever seen, YUM!
Thanks! The cheesiness really makes it irresistible, doesn’t it?
I can totally see why this is loved by all! I would love this and I know that my hubby would too!
Every kid in the world is going to devour this!
Thank you for the nice recipe.
No problem! 🙂
Could I use pasta sauce in a jar instead of making the marinara?
Absolutely!