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Creamy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe with Crispy Cheese Crust

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A creamy, cheesy spaghetti casserole with a crispy cheese crust that is quick, easy, and perfect for family dinners or potlucks. This comforting dish combines a silky sauce with a golden, crunchy topping for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti and cook until just al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add beaten eggs, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Mix well.
  5. Stir in 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture.
  6. Fold the cooked spaghetti gently into the cheese sauce, coating every strand without making it mushy.
  7. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar and a light dusting of Parmesan on top.
  9. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the cheese topping.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the cheese crust is golden and crispy. If the crust browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking.
  12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente is key to avoid mushy casserole. Use a mix of sharp cheddar and Parmesan for best flavor and texture. Drizzling melted butter on top helps achieve a crispy cheese crust. Let the casserole rest after baking to set up and meld flavors. You can prepare the sauce and pasta the night before and bake fresh the next day. For gluten-free, use gluten-free spaghetti. For dairy-free, substitute with dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and plant-based cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti casserole, creamy pasta bake, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, crispy cheese crust

Find it online: https://evabake.com/creamy-million-dollar-spaghetti-casserole-recipe-with-crispy-cheese-crust-easy-and-perfect/