Healthy Million Dollar Spaghetti

This Healthy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole is a lighter twist on the classic comfort food favorite. It delivers all the creamy, savory flavors you expect from a milliondollar casserole without the extra calories. This casserole is perfect for using up leftover spaghetti noodles and makes for a satisfying weeknight dinner. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or garlic bread to round out the meal.

I first made this during a busy week when I had leftover spaghetti and needed a comforting meal fast. Now it is a favorite in my house for busy nights and colder months.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti noodles: perfect for using up leftovers or cook fresh until al dente to avoid mushiness. Smart pasta is a great choice for extra fiber and faster cooking.
• Extra lean ground beef: keeps the dish hearty but light on fat. Choose fresh beef from a trusted source for best flavor.
• Onion and green pepper: add freshness and sweetness, choose firm and vibrant produce.
• Pasta sauce: pick your favorite low sugar marinara or a brand like Classico which keeps Weight Watcher points low.
• Cream cheese and parmesan cheese: fat free versions work well to add creaminess without the calories. Look for fresh packaging with no additives.
• Mushrooms: canned or fresh, mushrooms add earthiness and moisture; fresh is best if available.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: use lowfat sharp cheddar grated finely for topping that melts easily without melting too fast or burning.
• Garlic: fresh minced garlic boosts savory depth. Avoid pre minced garlic in oil which can change texture.
• Italian seasoning: a balanced blend of herbs builds the classic Italian flavor base.
• Fresh cilantro: brings brightness and a fresh herbal note; use fresh rather than dried whenever possible.
• Green onions: add a mild onion flavor and fresh color as garnish.

Instructions

Preheat the oven:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly spray an 11 by 13 inch lasagna pan with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make clean up easier.

Cook the pasta:

Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside so the pasta doesn’t overcook during baking.

Brown the beef and vegetables:

In a large skillet over mediumhigh heat, cook the lean ground beef along with the chopped onion and green pepper. Stir often until the beef is fully browned and vegetables have softened. Drain any excess grease thoroughly to keep the casserole from being oily.

Make the sauce:

Add the pasta sauce, cream cheese, parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir over mediumlow heat, whisking everything together until the cream cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and well combined.

Add mushrooms and cilantro:

Stir in the mushrooms and chopped fresh cilantro, then remove the skillet from heat. This keeps the fresh herbs bright and flavorful.

Layer the casserole:

Layer the cooked spaghetti and sauce mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish. Spread the noodles from edge to edge so each serving is well coated in sauce.

Add the cheese topping:

Sprinkle the grated lowfat sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Finely grated cheese melts more uniformly and browns nicely.

Bake then broil:

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and cheese to melt gently. Increase the oven temperature to broil at 500 degrees F (260 degrees C) for 2 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese bubbles and just begins to brown. Be attentive because lowfat cheese can burn quickly under the broiler.

Garnish and serve:

Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions before serving. This adds fresh bite and color contrast.

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This casserole is a comforting goto for busy evenings in my home. One chilly night after a long day, this was exactly the dish that brought warmth and smiles to the table.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. Be sure to cool it before sealing the container to avoid sogginess. This casserole freezes well in the same casserole dish if wrapped tightly with press n’ seal and a lid or foil. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, cover the casserole tightly with foil and warm in a 350 degrees F oven for 20 to 30 minutes until heated through. Remove foil and broil for a couple of minutes if you want the cheese topping bubbly again.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken to reduce saturated fat. Italian turkey sausage also adds great flavor. Mozzarella cheese can replace the cheddar for a milder, creamier topping. Use spaghetti squash instead of pasta for a low carb and Weight Watcher friendly alternative. Fresh mushrooms are ideal but canned mushrooms work fine if rinsed well to remove excess liquid.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple green salad with vinaigrette for balance. Garlic bread, baguette slices, or breadstick recipes complement the cheesy sauce perfectly. For a low point side, try the Everything Bagel Cloud Bread which adds an airy texture without calories.

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Let the casserole rest 10 to 15 minutes before slicing so it firms up. Serve warm and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it the day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Baking time may need slight adjustment if chilling cold.

→ What types of noodles work best?

Traditional spaghetti noodles or higher-protein varieties like lentil or chickpea pastas work well, especially if cooked just until al dente.

→ How do I avoid a watery bake?

Drain cooked meat thoroughly and avoid excess pasta water. Adding a bit of pasta water helps sauce cling but too much causes sogginess.

→ Can I use alternative cheeses?

Yes, part-skim mozzarella or fat-free cheeses keep the dish lighter while maintaining creamy texture and flavor.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat covered to keep moisture in.

→ What garnishes complement this dish?

Fresh chopped green onions, basil, or parsley add a bright, fresh touch before serving.