Experience a culinary revelation with this Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti – a vibrant, cheesy casserole that takes the viral TikTok sensation and infuses it with irresistible Tex-Mex flavors!
Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti: A Cheesy, Flavorful Twist on a Viral Classic
If you’ve been scrolling through social media, chances are you’ve stumbled upon the incredibly popular Million Dollar Spaghetti. This comfort food phenomenon captured hearts with its layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked to golden perfection. But what if we told you it could get even better? We’ve taken this beloved dish and given it a magnificent Mexican makeover, resulting in a casserole that’s bursting with bold, savory, and undeniably cheesy flavors. Prepare your taste buds for the Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti – a dish so good, it’s sure to become your new family favorite!
Elevating the Classic: The Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti Experience
Inspired by the comforting essence of the original Million Dollar Spaghetti, this Mexican-inspired version brings an exciting new dimension to the table. We’ve meticulously crafted a recipe that marries the familiar warmth of spaghetti with the vibrant spices and rich sauces characteristic of Mexican cuisine. This isn’t just spaghetti; it’s a hearty, satisfying casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, tender spaghetti noodles, and a heavenly blend of tomato and enchilada sauces, all generously layered with not one, but two types of melting cheeses. The result? A truly unforgettable meal that’s simple to prepare and guarantees to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Imagine a rich, savory meat sauce infused with classic taco seasonings, garlic, onion, and a hint of earthy cumin. This flavorful base is then layered over a bed of al dente spaghetti tossed in an unbelievably creamy, cheesy sauce made with butter, fresh garlic, heavy cream, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Finally, it’s crowned with more shredded cheese and baked until bubbly and golden brown. Every forkful offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes: the slight bite of pasta, the robust meat sauce, and the velvety, melty cheese pulling it all together. It’s the ultimate comfort food with an adventurous twist!
Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti
The current meat mixture is already packed with incredible seasonings, providing a fantastic foundation for the entire dish. However, if you want to dial up the Mexican essence in the creamy layer, you have a few excellent options. Try incorporating an additional tablespoon of taco seasoning into the creamy sauce, just be sure to adjust or omit any extra salt you might add, as taco seasoning often contains sodium. Alternatively, a sprinkle of ground cumin or a generous handful of fresh cilantro can introduce a bright, authentic Mexican flavor that truly elevates the creaminess. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, finely diced jalapeños (seeded for less spice) or a pinch of cayenne pepper could be fantastic additions to the meat sauce.
No need to fret or rush to the grocery store! Enchilada sauce is key for its unique flavor profile, but there are suitable substitutions. You can easily replace the enchilada sauce with 1 ½ cups of your favorite store-bought salsa, whether mild or medium, to add a similar saucy texture and a different kind of vibrant flavor. Another excellent alternative is using a can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies), which will introduce a slight tang and a mild kick. Keep in mind that these substitutions will alter the final flavor slightly, leaning more towards a salsa-based or chili-infused spaghetti, but it will still be incredibly delicious!
Absolutely! While spaghetti noodles are traditional for this dish and lend themselves well to the “million dollar” stacking, feel free to experiment with other pasta varieties. Fettuccine or linguine could offer a broader surface to coat with sauce, while angel hair pasta would result in a lighter, more delicate texture. Smaller pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni could also work beautifully, especially if you prefer a dish that’s easier to scoop and serve. Just remember to use the same total amount (16 ounces) of cooked pasta to maintain the intended consistency and balance of ingredients in the casserole.
Yes, doubling this recipe is a fantastic idea, especially if you’re hosting a party, potluck, or simply want plenty of leftovers! This dish is a proven crowd-pleaser, and guests often rave about it, just as they do with the classic version. For best results when doubling, we recommend preparing it in two separate 9×13-inch baking dishes rather than trying to fit it all into one very large pan. This ensures even cooking and allows for proper layering of the ingredients, preventing it from becoming too dense or cooking unevenly.
Storing leftovers is simple, making this an excellent make-ahead or meal prep option. Once the casserole has cooled down to room temperature, transfer any remaining portions into an airtight container. It will keep fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When freezing, consider portioning it out into individual servings for easy reheating later.
Reheating is quick and easy. For individual servings, the microwave is your best friend. Simply place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through. If reheating a larger amount, you can also use your oven. Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated. Keep in mind that cream-based sauces can sometimes “break” slightly when reheated, meaning they might look a little less cohesive, but the flavor will remain absolutely delicious!
Key Ingredients for Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti
Crafting this flavorful casserole relies on a combination of fresh produce, quality meats, and aromatic spices. Here’s a closer look at the essential components:
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef forms the hearty base of our meat sauce. For those looking to diversify, consider using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even chorizo sausage if you crave an extra layer of spicy, porky flavor and richness.
- Onion and Green Bell Pepper: These aromatic vegetables are sautéed until tender, adding depth and a subtle sweetness to the meat sauce. If you’re not a fan of either, they can be omitted, but they contribute significantly to the overall flavor profile. Feel free to add other diced vegetables like red bell pepper or corn for extra color and nutrients.
- Taco Seasoning: This essential blend provides the signature Mexican flavor. You can use a convenient store-bought packet or whip up your own homemade taco seasoning for a personalized touch and control over ingredients. If managing sodium intake is a concern, opt for a low-sodium variety.
- Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, and Cumin: Beyond the taco seasoning, these additional spices create layers of complex flavor, enhancing the savory notes of the beef. Cumin, with its earthy, warm aroma, is particularly important for that authentic Mexican taste. It’s optional if you’re not a fan, but highly recommended.
- Tomato Sauce and Enchilada Sauce: The combination of these two sauces is crucial. Tomato sauce provides a classic, tangy base, while enchilada sauce infuses the dish with its distinctive, robust Mexican flavor, creating a wonderfully “saucy” and incredibly rich experience.
- Unsalted Butter: The foundation of our luscious creamy sauce, unsalted butter allows for precise control over the dish’s saltiness. If salted butter is all you have, simply reduce or omit the added salt specified in the recipe.
- Garlic Cloves: We highly recommend using fresh minced garlic for the creamy sauce. Its pungent, aromatic flavor far surpasses that of pre-minced jarred garlic, adding a crucial layer of depth to the cream sauce. However, if jarred is your only option, it will still work.
- Heavy Cream: This is the secret ingredient for achieving an unparalleled level of creaminess and richness in the spaghetti layer. Unlike milk, which can be too thin, heavy cream provides that luxurious, velvety texture that defines a “million dollar” dish.
- Cheddar Cheese and Monterey Jack Cheese: This combination is a personal favorite, offering a perfect balance of sharp, tangy cheddar and mild, meltable Monterey Jack. However, feel free to experiment! Pepper Jack cheese would introduce a delightful spicy kick, or you could try Colby Jack or a pre-shredded Mexican blend for convenience.
- Cooked Spaghetti: Al dente spaghetti noodles are the perfect vehicle for soaking up all the incredible sauces and flavors. As mentioned earlier, other pasta shapes can be used; just ensure they are cooked according to package directions and maintain the same total quantity.
How to Make Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating this magnificent Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti is a straightforward process, broken down into easy-to-follow steps. Get ready to layer your way to a truly extraordinary dinner!
First, begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure nothing sticks, then set it aside. This preparation makes for easy cleanup and seamless assembly.
In a large skillet, heat it over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef along with the diced onion and bell pepper. Break the beef into small crumbles using a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally, allowing the beef to brown evenly and the vegetables to soften, which typically takes about 10 minutes. Once the beef is no longer pink and the veggies are translucent, drain off any excess grease to prevent the sauce from becoming oily.
Now, it’s time to infuse the meat with its signature Mexican flavor. Add the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir these fragrant spices thoroughly into the beef and vegetable mixture. Continue to cook for just 1 more minute, allowing the spices to “bloom” and release their full aroma, creating an incredibly fragrant base for your sauce.
Pour in both the tomato sauce and the enchilada sauce into the skillet with the seasoned beef. Stir everything together until well combined. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the meat sauce gently simmer for about 15 minutes. This simmering time is crucial as it allows all the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a rich and complex sauce.
While the meat sauce is simmering, shift your focus to preparing the decadent creamy sauce. In a Dutch oven or a large stockpot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for just about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until it becomes wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown or burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
To the melted butter and fragrant garlic, stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook this mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until all the cheese has completely melted and the sauce has thickened slightly to a luscious, smooth consistency. This creamy, cheesy mixture is what gives the “million dollar” spaghetti its luxurious appeal.
Add your perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles directly into the creamy cheese sauce. Toss and stir gently until every strand of spaghetti is thoroughly coated in the rich, cheesy mixture. This ensures that each bite of the casserole is infused with incredible flavor and creaminess. Carefully pour this creamy spaghetti mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Next, spoon the simmering, flavorful meat sauce evenly over the creamy spaghetti layer in the baking dish. Spread it out gently to create a beautiful, rich top layer.
For the grand finale, generously sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top of the meat sauce. This final layer of cheese will melt and become wonderfully golden and bubbly during baking, forming a delicious, cheesy crust.
Place the uncovered baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and herbaceous flavor. Serve hot and enjoy this incredible Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti is a hearty meal all on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to create a complete and satisfying dinner. A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the casserole, offering a refreshing contrast. Warm tortillas or tortilla chips served on the side are perfect for scooping up any extra sauce. For an authentic touch, consider serving it alongside some Mexican cornbread. Don’t forget your favorite toppings like a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, or an extra sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
This casserole is truly a winner for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal fuss. Its comforting layers and bold flavors make it universally appealing, guaranteeing empty plates and happy smiles. Dive into the deliciousness and make this Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti a staple in your recipe rotation!
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Mexican Million Dollar Spaghetti (+Video)
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Ingredients
For the meat mixture:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 onion, small-diced
- 1 green bell pepper, small-diced
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 10 ounce enchilada sauce
For the creamy layer:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 16 ounces cooked spaghetti noodles (1 box)
For the topping:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, and set it aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 pound lean ground beef. Break up the beef into crumbles and cook, occasionally stirring, until the beef is no longer pink, about 10 minutes.
- Note: If your beef produced a lot of grease, drain it thoroughly before proceeding to the next step.
- Add 1 packet taco seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Stir in the seasonings until well combined.
- Then add 1 small-diced onion and 1 small-diced green bell pepper. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions and peppers have started to slightly soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 15 ounces tomato sauce and 10 ounce enchilada sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to deepen.
- While the meat sauce simmers, prepare the creamy sauce. Melt ½ cup unsalted butter over medium heat in a Dutch oven or large stockpot. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in 2 cups heavy cream, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring continuously, until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce thickens slightly to a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Add 16 ounces cooked spaghetti noodles to the creamy sauce. Toss and stir until the noodles are thoroughly coated. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly spread the cooked meat sauce over the creamy spaghetti layer.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately.
Video
Notes
- For more detailed answers on substitutions or common questions, please refer to the FAQ section and ingredient list above.
- Note: I prefer my peppers and onions to have a slight crunch in this dish. If you prefer your vegetables super soft, you can cook them longer with the ground beef in step 2.
- Other excellent cheese options for the creamy layer or topping include white cheddar, Velveeta, white American, or Colby Jack.
- If enchilada sauce is unavailable, you can substitute with 1 ½ cups of your favorite salsa or a can of Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies).
- This casserole is wonderfully served alongside some warm Mexican cornbread.
- Like many cream-based sauces, this dish may separate slightly upon reheating. Rest assured, it remains completely delicious and perfectly edible!
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for longer preservation.
- Feel free to use other pasta varieties besides spaghetti, just ensure you maintain the same total quantity (16 ounces).
- Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed through.
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.