We absolutely love putting a fresh spin on comfort classics, and our Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce is pure indulgence. This creamy twist on the beloved baked spaghetti dish combines rich Alfredo with hearty pasta and savory layers, creating a meal that’s as easy as it is irresistible.
Drawing from Italian-American roots, we’ve elevated the traditional recipe to deliver a luxurious dinner option that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight wins. Join us as we dive into this flavorful favorite that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
In our Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe with Alfredo Sauce, we gather high-quality ingredients that blend creamy indulgence with savory flavors, drawing from classic Italian-American traditions. Below, we’ve organized the ingredients in the order they’re used, with prep notes for precision and ease.
Pasta and Base
- 12 ounces spaghetti: Cook al dente for the perfect texture; this forms the hearty base of our dish.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Browned and drained; choose lean meat for a lighter version while keeping that rich, savory essence.
Sauce Components
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: Store-bought or homemade—we recommend our quick version with garlic and parmesan for ultimate creaminess; heat gently to avoid separation.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes: Drained; adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the Alfredo richness.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Sauté until translucent; enhances depth with its natural sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly chopped for maximum aroma; stir in just before adding sauces to bloom the flavors.
Cheese and Binders
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Key to the “million dollar” creaminess; mix until smooth for even layering.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Divided for layering and topping; melts beautifully for a gooey finish.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top; provides a nutty, salty kick that elevates the Alfredo profile.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Optional for extra tang; blend into the cream cheese mixture for a luxurious bind.
Seasonings and Toppings
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme; adds authentic Italian flair without overwhelming the Alfredo.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste; season each layer for balanced flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish; use about 2 tablespoons to add a pop of color and freshness once baked.
This selection ensures our Million Dollar Spaghetti is not only straightforward to prepare but also packed with layers of taste that will make it a go-to favorite.
Required Tools and Equipment
To bring our Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce to life, we rely on a few key tools and equipment that streamline the cooking process and ensure perfect results every time. Having the right items on hand makes layering flavors and baking this indulgent dish effortless.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We recommend the following tools, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Large Stock Pot: For boiling the spaghetti to al dente perfection, ensuring it holds up well when baked.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: Ideal for browning the ground beef or Italian sausage and sautéing onions and garlic to build a flavorful base.
- Baking Dish (9×13 inches): Crucial for assembling the layers of pasta, sauce, and cheeses, allowing for even baking and that signature golden top.
- Colander: Used to drain the cooked spaghetti quickly, preventing excess water from diluting our creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Mixing Bowls (at least two sizes): One for combining sauce ingredients and another for mixing cheeses, helping us achieve that ultra-rich texture.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce and meat mixture without scratching our cookware.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping onions, garlic, and any fresh herbs with precision.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients like Alfredo sauce and seasonings, guaranteeing our dish’s balanced flavors.
- Oven Mitts and Serving Spoon: To safely handle the hot baking dish and serve our Million Dollar Spaghetti straight from the oven.
By preparing these tools in advance, we set ourselves up for a seamless cooking experience that highlights the creamy indulgence of our Alfredo-infused recipe.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, let’s guide you through preparing our creamy Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce. We will break down each step to ensure a seamless process that delivers layers of savory and indulgent flavors.
Prepare Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we need to prep our ingredients for efficiency and flavor enhancement. Begin by finely chopping 1 medium onion and 3 garlic cloves to release their aromatic essence. Next, grate 2 cups of mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of parmesan cheese for that signature gooey melt. Brown 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage in a separate bowl, breaking it into crumbles for even cooking. Measure out 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes and drain them to remove excess liquid, preventing a watery dish. Finally, cube 8 ounces of cream cheese into small pieces for quick melting and set aside 1 jar (15 ounces) of Alfredo sauce. This preparation ensures every component integrates smoothly, building the rich, creamy base we love.
Cook the Spaghetti
We start by boiling our hearty spaghetti to al dente perfection, providing the ideal foundation for the sauce. Fill a large stock pot with 4 quarts of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat, then add 1 tablespoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti noodles and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking, until the pasta is firm yet tender. Once done, drain the spaghetti in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, preserving its satisfying texture that will absorb the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
With our spaghetti cooking, we turn to crafting the star of the dish: a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce infused with savory elements. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and golden, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Add the browned ground beef or sausage, stirring for 1 minute to combine. Pour in the jar of Alfredo sauce, diced tomatoes, and cubed cream cheese, then season with 1 teaspoon of Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens into a luxurious, creamy blend that coats the back of a spoon, promising that indulgent mouthfeel in every bite.
Assemble the Dish
Now we layer our components in a 9×13-inch baking dish to create the comforting, multi-textured masterpiece of Million Dollar Spaghetti. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly across the bottom of the dish for a solid base. Pour half of the Alfredo sauce mixture over the pasta, ensuring it’s fully covered for maximum creaminess. Add the remaining spaghetti on top, followed by the rest of the sauce, and sprinkle the grated mozzarella and parmesan cheeses generously over everything, creating a golden, bubbly crust. For added freshness, dot with chopped parsley if desired. This assembly locks in the flavors, promising a harmonious blend of textures from the tender pasta to the melted cheese.
Bake the Casserole
Finally, we bake the casserole to meld the flavors and achieve that perfectly browned, irresistible finish. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place the assembled dish inside, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes. Watch as the cheese bubbles and turns golden, releasing a savory aroma that signals readiness. Remove from the oven using oven mitts and let it rest for 5 minutes to set, allowing the creamy layers to firm up slightly for easier serving. This step transforms the dish into a warm, comforting delight that’s sure to impress at any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce is its flexibility for advance preparation, allowing us to save time on busy days while keeping the dish’s creamy, indulgent flavors intact. We can assemble the casserole ahead and store it for later, ensuring a hassle-free meal that still delivers that signature baked perfection.
Assembling in Advance
To make our Million Dollar Spaghetti ahead, follow these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the components first: After cooking the spaghetti to al dente and preparing the meat and Alfredo Sauce mixture as outlined in the previous section, layer the ingredients in a 9×13-inch baking dish without baking. Start with a base of spaghetti mixed with sauce, add the meat layer, and top with cheeses for that gooey finish.
- Cover and refrigerate: Once assembled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. We recommend refrigerating it for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness and prevent the pasta from absorbing too much moisture, which could affect the texture.
- Freezing for longer storage: If we plan further ahead, freeze the assembled dish for up to 2 months. First, wrap it securely in foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage ensures our Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce retains its rich, savory layers and creamy consistency. Here’s how we handle it:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Keep the dish chilled at 40°F (4°C) or below to preserve the Alfredo Sauce‘s creaminess; avoid overcrowding the fridge to prevent condensation. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Use airtight packaging to lock in flavors; label with the date for easy tracking. |
When it’s time to enjoy, reheat as follows:
- From the refrigerator: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), remove any covering, and bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden. We suggest covering with foil for the first 20 minutes to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
- From the freezer: After thawing in the fridge, follow the same baking instructions, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure the center is heated through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
By planning ahead with these methods, we maximize the convenience of our Million Dollar Spaghetti, making it a go-to for effortless, crowd-pleasing dinners.
Conclusion
We’ve loved transforming this classic Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce into a creamy favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a dish that brings us together around the table, offering layers of flavor that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.
Try it yourself and see how simple tweaks make all the difference in your kitchen adventures. We’re confident it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for effortless, indulgent meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce?
Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce is a creamy, indulgent twist on classic baked spaghetti. It combines al dente spaghetti with rich Alfredo sauce, ground beef or sausage, diced tomatoes, and layers of cheese like mozzarella and parmesan. Inspired by Italian-American cuisine, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare.
What ingredients are needed for Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce?
You’ll need spaghetti as the base, ground beef or Italian sausage for savory depth, Alfredo sauce, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, and seasonings like Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Fresh parsley adds a garnish. This simple list ensures a creamy, layered dish that’s straightforward to assemble with everyday pantry staples.
What kitchen tools are required for this recipe?
Essential tools include a large stock pot for boiling spaghetti, a skillet for browning meat and sautéing aromatics, a 9×13-inch baking dish for layering, a colander for draining pasta, mixing bowls, a wooden spoon, a chef’s knife, measuring cups, and oven mitts. These items make preparation efficient and help achieve a perfectly baked result.
How do I prepare Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce?
Start by cooking spaghetti to al dente. Brown ground beef or sausage with onions and garlic, then mix in Alfredo sauce and tomatoes. Layer the spaghetti, sauce mixture, and cheeses in a baking dish. Bake at 350°F until bubbly and golden, about 30-40 minutes. Garnish with parsley for a fresh finish. It’s a simple process yielding a rich, comforting dish.
Can I make Million Dollar Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, or freeze for up to 2 months. This makes it ideal for busy schedules. When ready, bake from refrigerated or thaw and bake from frozen, adjusting time as needed to maintain its creamy texture and flavors for easy, stress-free meals.