If you’re craving a dish that truly wows and delights every bite, the Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe is here to make your dinner unforgettable. Imagine tender spaghetti smothered in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, layered generously with seasoned ground beef, vibrant veggies, and an irresistible blend of cheeses that melt into pure comfort. This recipe brings together all the flavors you love in a hearty, silky pasta dish that feels both indulgent and satisfying. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe promises to become a beloved classic on your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that each play a special role in building the taste, texture, and color of this hearty dish. From the savory seasoned beef to the creamy, cheesy sauce, every element combines for a perfect harmony of flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides a savory, hearty base and rich protein that balances the creamy sauce.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced: Brings a fresh crunch and vibrant green color for added visual appeal.
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning: Packs a flavorful punch with a little heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances garlic’s warm, comforting flavor throughout the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts overall onion taste without overpowering the mix.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Infuses classic herbaceous notes like oregano and basil.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce: Adds a robust, tangy tomato base that complements the creaminess.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Creates a silky richness for the Alfredo sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Provides an intoxicating fresh garlic aroma and flavor kick.
- 2 cups heavy cream: Makes the Alfredo luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese: Delivers sharp, nutty umami that thickens and flavors the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and aromatic spiciness.
- 16 ounces (1 pound) spaghetti noodles, cooked to al dente: Perfectly chewy pasta to soak up that luscious sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a golden, bubbly topping.
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese: Used for a final sprinkle enhancing the cheese layer.
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, green touch and mild herbal note.
How to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Vegetables
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the finely diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook them together until the veggies are softened, about 5 minutes. Next, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir well so the beef and vegetables toast with the spices, creating deep layers of flavor.
Step 2: Add the Marinara Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly. This saucy mixture is what gives the Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe its irresistible tang and heartiness.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the freshly minced garlic and sauté gently until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to combine. Slowly add the 2 cups of shredded Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy dream. This sauce is truly the silky, luscious heart of the dish.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauces
Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain. Toss the hot noodles with the Alfredo sauce until fully coated. Then gently fold in the beef and marinara mixture, ensuring each strand of spaghetti is lavishly coated with flavor and richness.
Step 5: Bake with Cheese Topping
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a large baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and remaining Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and beginning to turn golden brown. Now your Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe is ready to steal the spotlight!
How to Serve Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
For that perfect finishing touch, sprinkle dried parsley flakes over the hot dish. The vibrant green not only adds a pop of color but also a mild herby freshness that balances the creamy richness beautifully. A few cracks of fresh black pepper on top can also make the flavors pop even more.
Side Dishes
A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully to cut through the richness, while garlic bread or crusty Italian bread offers the perfect vehicle to scoop up any leftover sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans also bring fresh texture and color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a charming, personal touch. Layer it with extra cheese between pasta layers in a deep dish to create a fancy baked pasta casserole. For special occasions, add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or fresh basil leaves for upscale presentation and added flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes well, so portion it before freezing for easy future meals. Place in freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Just be sure to leave out the cheese topping if you plan to freeze, adding it freshly before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking, or warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration to restore its creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use another type of pasta for the Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to swap in fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni. Just adjust cooking times to keep the pasta al dente so it holds up well in the baked dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for that savory depth. Alternatively, plant-based meat substitutes work great too.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, add your cheese topping and bake fresh to preserve that bubbly, golden crust.
How spicy is this Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe?
The Cajun seasoning adds a gentle warmth, but it’s adjustable. Reduce or omit to suit your family’s taste or add in some crushed red pepper flakes if you like extra heat.
What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the dish?
Reheating covered with foil in the oven or warming gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk helps keep it creamy and prevents drying.
Final Thoughts
Give the Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe a try the next time you want to wow your loved ones with a meal that feels rich, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Once you taste that creamy sauce uniting with perfectly seasoned beef and tender pasta, you’ll see why it’s called million dollar worthy. Enjoy every bite of this cozy classic that’s sure to make your dinner table the happiest place in the house!
Print
Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Italian Fusion
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta casserole that layers flavorful ground beef cooked with Cajun and Italian seasonings, tender spaghetti noodles, and a luscious Alfredo sauce made with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Topped with mozzarella and extra Parmesan, this dish is baked to golden, bubbly perfection and garnished with parsley for a comforting and indulgent meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes (optional, for garnish)
Sauces and Dairy
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Pasta
- 16 ounces (1 pound) spaghetti noodles, cooked to al dente
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during the baking process.
- Cook the ground beef and vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed. Add the finely diced onion and green bell pepper, sautéing until softened and translucent.
- Season the meat mixture: Stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors evenly throughout the meat and vegetables.
- Add marinara sauce: Pour 24 ounces of marinara sauce into the skillet with the seasoned beef mixture. Stir to combine and let simmer gently on low heat to blend flavors.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: In a separate medium saucepan, melt ½ cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in 2 cups heavy cream and bring to a simmer while stirring frequently. Lower the heat and gradually add 2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.
- Combine pasta, meat sauce, and Alfredo: In a large mixing bowl or directly in a baking dish, mix the cooked spaghetti noodles with the meat and marinara sauce mixture, then pour the Alfredo sauce over all ingredients and toss or stir gently for even coverage.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the combined pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle dried parsley flakes on top for a fresh, colorful garnish before serving warm.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoothest Alfredo sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti noodles initially as they will continue cooking in the oven.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat thoroughly before eating.
