This Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful blend of spaghetti, cheese, and a rich meat sauce. It’s a budget-friendly dish that’s both delicious and satisfying, perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 (8 ounce) package spaghetti
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 (16 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
• ½ cup butter, sliced (divided)
• 1 (8 ounce) container cottage cheese
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 (8 ounce) package shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Spaghetti: In a large pot of lightly salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti until it’s al dente, roughly 12 minutes. Once done, drain the water.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Over medium-high heat, use a large skillet to cook and stir the beef until it’s browned. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Transfer the beef to a bowl and mix it with the spaghetti sauce.
4. Layer the Casserole:
   • Place half of the butter slices at the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
   • Spread half of the cooked spaghetti over the butter.
   • In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream. Spread this mixture over the layer of spaghetti.
   • Add the remaining spaghetti on top and place the remaining butter slices over it.
   • Pour the beef and sauce mixture over the spaghetti, ensuring an even spread.
5. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After this, sprinkle the Cheddar cheese on top and continue baking until the cheese melts and turns slightly brown, which should take an additional 15 minutes.

Serve hot and enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to be a hit with everyone!