Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti
An indulgent dish that combines hearty spaghetti with rich, creamy Alfredo sauce and savory meat sauce, creating a comforting and nostalgic meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Base
- 1 lb regular spaghetti, cooked until tender Provides a perfect base for the rich sauces.
- 24 oz jar of spaghetti sauce Quick fix to bring everything together seamlessly.
Alfredo Sauce
- 4 tablespoons salted butter Adds a luxurious touch to the dish.
- 6 to 7 cloves minced garlic Delivers a powerful aromatic punch.
- 2 cups heavy cream Ensures a creamy, smooth sauce.
- 3 oz fresh shaved Parmesan cheese Melts perfectly into the Alfredo sauce.
- 1/4 cup water Helps rinse out the jar.
- 1 teaspoon sugar Balances flavors.
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon salt Adjusted to taste.
- a dash none black pepper Adds warmth.
- optional none red pepper flakes For those who love a little heat.
Meat and Vegetable Layer
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with Italian sausage, chicken, or turkey.
- 1 cup diced yellow onion Adds sweetness.
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper Adds crunch.
Cheese Topping and Garnish
- 8 oz freshly shredded mozzarella cheese Creates a golden topping.
- optional none chopped parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Boil the spaghetti in a pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Reduce heat and whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Alfredo sauce in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Cooking
- In a separate skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and bell pepper. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce, water, and seasonings. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Pour the meat sauce over the Alfredo spaghetti without stirring. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.
Notes
Cook spaghetti al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. Let the dish rest after baking before serving for better layering.