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## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
– Bring a large pot of **salted water** to a boil and cook **spaghetti** **1-2 minutes less** than package directions (it will finish cooking in the oven).
– Drain and toss with **1 tablespoon olive oil** to prevent sticking.
### **Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce**
– In a **large skillet**, cook the **ground beef (or sausage)** over **medium heat** until browned.
– Add the **onion and garlic** and sauté for another **2-3 minutes** until fragrant.
– Stir in **marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper**. Simmer for **5-10 minutes**, then remove from heat.
### **Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture**
– In a **medium bowl**, mix **cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, garlic powder, and salt** until smooth.
### **Step 4: Assemble the Casserole**
1. **Layer 1 (Half of Spaghetti):** Spread half of the **cooked spaghetti** into a greased **9×13-inch baking dish**.
2. **Layer 2 (Cheese Mixture):** Evenly spread the **cream cheese mixture** over the pasta.
3. **Layer 3 (Remaining Spaghetti):** Add the remaining spaghetti on top.
4. **Layer 4 (Meat Sauce):** Pour the **savory meat sauce** over everything.
5. **Layer 5 (Cheesy Topping):** Sprinkle **mozzarella and Parmesan cheese** on top.
### **Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping (Optional but Delicious!)**
– Mix **melted butter with breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers** and sprinkle over the cheese for an extra **crunchy topping**.
### **Step 6: Bake the Casserole**
– Cover with foil and bake at **350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes**.
– Remove foil and bake for another **10-15 minutes** until the cheese is **golden and bubbly**.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
🍞 **Pair with garlic bread** – Nothing beats soaking up that cheesy, saucy goodness!
🥗 **Serve with a fresh green salad** – A crisp side balances out the richness.
🧄 **Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley** – For an added touch of freshness.
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## **Make-Ahead & Storage Tips**
✔ **Make-Ahead:** Assemble the casserole **up to 24 hours in advance**, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready!
✔ **Freeze for Later:** Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to **3 months**. Thaw overnight before baking.
✔ **Reheating:** Warm leftovers in the oven at **350°F** for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole** is the **ultimate comfort food**—rich, creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. It’s **easy to make**, **great for meal prep**, and **always a hit with family and friends**.
Try this **delicious, restaurant-worthy** baked spaghetti dish today and enjoy every **cheesy, meaty, and satisfying bite**! 🍝🧀✨
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