Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Make the creamy cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese (or ricotta), sour cream, and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Layer the casserole:
- Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti and spread it out evenly.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese layer.
- Pour the meat sauce over the top and spread it evenly.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan over the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy this Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a full, comforting meal! 😍