Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich, creamy, and cheesy baked pasta dish that combines perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles with a luscious sauce made from cream cheese, cheddar, sour cream, and butter, enhanced by smoky bacon bits and sautéed onions. This comforting and versatile recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, delivering warmth, flavor, and a delightful golden crust in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente
Cheese Sauce
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp butter
Vegetables & Flavorings
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Protein
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti noodles in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent mushiness in the sauce.
- Cook the Bacon and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon bits until crispy. Remove bacon bits and leave some drippings in the pan. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant to develop subtle sweetness.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat, add butter to the skillet with onions. Once melted, stir in cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and cheese completely melts.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the cooked spaghetti noodles and crispy bacon bits to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat every strand with the creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top, creating a delightful crust while keeping the interior creamy.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for an intensified flavor and better melting.
- Do not overcook pasta to maintain texture after baking.
- Mix mozzarella with cheddar for extra gooeyness if desired.
- Bake uncovered to achieve a golden crispy topping without steaming.
- Add bacon bits last to keep them crispy and avoid sogginess in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: spaghetti, cheesy pasta, baked pasta, comfort food, family dinner, creamy sauce, bacon spaghetti, easy dinner