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Creamy Baked Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

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A creamy, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole that’s quick, easy, and perfect for family dinners. This comforting dish combines al dente spaghetti with a rich cream cheese and sour cream sauce, ground beef, and a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz dry spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream, full fat preferred
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz spaghetti and cook until just al dente (about 8-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and 1 small chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and onions are soft (about 7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup sour cream, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet with browned beef and onions. Toss to combine evenly over low heat.
  5. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti and beef in the skillet. Stir gently until pasta is evenly coated.
  6. Stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup grated Parmesan into the pasta mixture. Reserve some cheddar for topping.
  7. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  8. Mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over casserole, then top with remaining cheddar cheese.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.
  10. Let casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta to avoid mushiness. Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth sauce. Drain excess fat from beef to prevent sogginess. Mixing melted butter with panko breadcrumbs ensures a golden, crunchy topping. Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving. For richer flavor, swap half cheddar for smoked gouda or mozzarella. Can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti casserole, baked spaghetti, creamy casserole, family dinner, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy casserole

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/creamy-baked-million-dollar-spaghetti-casserole-recipe-easy-and-perfect/