Ultimate Million Dollar Casserole Irresistible Comfort Now
Author:admin
Total Time:1 hour 30 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Description
Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Casserole delivers cozy rich flavor with easy prep saucy cheesy bite and crowdpleasing results for weeknight dinners
Ingredients
Scale
1 large spaghetti squash
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 pound ground Italian sausage (sweet or savory) or ground turkey sausage
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup marinara sauce
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with a light brush of oil or cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Roast the spaghetti squash: place the halves cut-side down on a parchment-lined sheet pan, bake 40–45 minutes, until the flesh shreds easily with a fork. Let cool briefly, then scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands and set aside.
Brown the sausage in the same pan, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until no pink remains and the edges are lightly caramelized, 5–7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Make the creamy sauce: in a large bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, ricotta, marinara, and half of the parmesan until smooth. Stir in oregano and pepper flakes, then taste and adjust salt if needed.
Combine everything: fold the spaghetti squash strands into the sausage mixture until evenly distributed. Stir in the creamy sauce and half of the mozzarella. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
Bake until the top is bubbly and golden, about 18–22 minutes. If you like a crisper top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Rest 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh aroma before serving.
Notes
Cozy, weeknight-worthy comfort in one baked dish: Million Dollar Spaghetti Squash Casserole with melty cheese, savory sausage, and a marinara-bright sauce tucked into tender spaghetti squash noodles.