Million Dollar Greenback Spaghetti Casserole
Introduction: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Million Dollar Greenback Spaghetti Casserole. This dish combines layers of cheesy goodness, perfectly seasoned meat sauce, and spaghetti, all baked to perfection. Not only does this casserole offer a rich, creamy flavor, but we’ve also included healthier ingredients to make this a balanced, nutritious option. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or serving up a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
- For the Spaghetti and Filling:
- 12 oz whole wheat spaghetti
- 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce (low-sodium)
- 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (low-fat)
- 1 cup cream cheese (light, softened)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Cook Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef (or turkey) until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. Let simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Layer the Casserole:
- In the prepared casserole dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Pour half of the meat sauce on top.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce. Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra touch of freshness.
Health Benefits:
- Whole Grains: Using whole wheat spaghetti adds extra fiber, promoting healthy digestion and supporting heart health.
- Lean Protein: Ground beef or turkey provides lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth while keeping the dish lighter.
- Calcium-Rich: The combination of cheeses offers a good source of calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
Conclusion: Our Million Dollar Greenback Spaghetti Casserole delivers all the rich, cheesy flavor you crave, with a healthier twist. It’s the perfect meal for gatherings, offering comfort, taste, and nourishment all in one delicious dish.
