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Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Easy Creamy Cheese Dinner

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A comforting and creamy spaghetti casserole featuring a rich blend of Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheeses, ground beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce. This easy recipe delivers a warm, cheesy, and hearty dinner perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef, lean or regular
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) tomato sauce
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 2 cups (about 200 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, whole or 2%
  • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) of spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Save a cup of pasta water if needed to loosen sauce later.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 medium chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef to the skillet. Break apart and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) tomato sauce and 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream, 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk, 8 ounces (225 grams) cubed Velveeta cheese, and 2 cups (200 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until melted and smooth, or melt slowly on stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly.
  6. Toss cooked spaghetti into the skillet with meat sauce. Pour creamy cheese sauce over and mix gently to coat evenly. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
  7. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish. Sprinkle 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  9. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set.

Notes

Do not overcook spaghetti; al dente holds better in casserole. Brown beef well and drain excess fat to avoid greasy sauce. Melt cheeses slowly to prevent grainy sauce. Season gradually with salt and pepper. Let casserole rest after baking for easier serving. Parmesan topping adds a crunchy golden finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti casserole, creamy cheese casserole, million dollar casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy pasta bake

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/million-dollar-spaghetti-casserole-recipe-easy-creamy-cheese-dinner/