Have you ever wondered what comfort food tastes like at its absolute best? Meet the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe—a dish that combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the richness of a creamy, cheesy, and savory casserole. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to be a showstopper.
What makes this recipe so special? It’s all about the layers! Imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti topped with a hearty meat sauce, a creamy cheese layer that melts in your mouth, and a golden, bubbly topping of mozzarella and Parmesan. The result? A pasta bake that feels luxurious yet is surprisingly budget-friendly and easy to make.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this decadent dish, from selecting the best ingredients to nailing the layering process. By the end, you’ll have a go-to recipe that’s so good, it’s worth a million bucks (figuratively, of course!).
Let’s dive in and discover why this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe has become a favorite in kitchens everywhere.
What Makes Million Dollar Spaghetti So Special?
The Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe isn’t just another pasta bake; it’s a dish that combines the best aspects of comfort food into one unforgettable experience. From its luxurious layers to its incredible versatility, here’s why this dish is so loved.
A Perfect Blend of Ingredients
The magic of this recipe lies in its layers, each contributing to the overall flavor and texture.
- Creamy Layer: The creamy layer is what sets this dish apart from a traditional spaghetti bake. A mixture of cream cheese, ricotta (or sour cream), and butter creates a velvety, tangy base that elevates the dish to the next level. It adds richness without being overpowering, ensuring every bite is indulgent.
- Cheesy Topping: The top layer is a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, baked to perfection. The mozzarella provides a gooey, stretchy texture, while the Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor. When baked, these cheeses melt into a bubbly, golden crust that’s irresistibly delicious.
- Hearty Marinara Sauce: The marinara sauce (whether store-bought or homemade) ties the dish together with its bold, savory flavors. Simmered with ground beef, it creates a satisfying meaty base that complements the creamy and cheesy layers perfectly.
This balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors is what makes the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe a truly standout dish.
Family-Friendly and Versatile
One of the reasons this recipe is so popular is its universal appeal. It’s the perfect meal for:
- Picky Eaters: The familiar flavors of spaghetti, cheese, and meat make it a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike. Even the pickiest eaters will find something to love in this dish.
- Parties and Potlucks: Hosting a crowd? This recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to prepare in advance, and its hearty portions ensure everyone leaves satisfied. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, so you won’t need to spend time on complicated sides.
- Leftovers: Million Dollar Spaghetti tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld together overnight, making leftovers a delicious and convenient option for busy weeknights.
- Customizable Options: Another great thing about this dish is how flexible it is. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey, sausage, or even a plant-based alternative. Prefer a different cheese? Experiment with cheddar or provolone to suit your taste. You can even add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for an extra nutritional boost.
Finally, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients, you can create a meal that feels luxurious without breaking the bank.
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Ingredients You’ll Need for the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need a few staple ingredients that come together to make something truly special. From the hearty base to the creamy center and the cheesy topping, each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering the rich flavors and textures that make this recipe unforgettable.
Pasta and Meat Base
- Spaghetti Noodles:
The foundation of this dish starts with spaghetti noodles, which serve as the perfect vehicle for the creamy and cheesy layers above. Spaghetti is ideal because its thin, slightly chewy texture holds up well during baking and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Cook the noodles al dente (slightly firm) to prevent them from becoming mushy during the baking process. - Ground Beef:
Ground beef is essential for the savory, hearty flavor that makes this dish so satisfying. When cooked and seasoned with garlic and onion powder, the beef provides depth and richness to the marinara sauce. You can also customize this element by substituting ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for sautéed vegetables or plant-based meat crumbles.
he Creamy Layer
This layer is what transforms a simple baked spaghetti into the Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe. It’s rich, indulgent, and adds a creamy texture that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce.
- Cream Cheese:
Cream cheese is the star of this layer, creating a silky smooth texture that melts into the pasta as it bakes. It’s the secret ingredient that adds a luxurious mouthfeel to the dish. - Ricotta or Sour Cream:
Adding ricotta or sour cream to the creamy layer enhances its flavor and texture. Ricotta gives a mild, slightly sweet creaminess, while sour cream adds a tangy twist. Both options help to create a balanced, flavorful layer that pairs beautifully with the rest of the dish. - Butter:
A small amount of butter is mixed into the creamy layer to add a rich, buttery flavor that enhances the overall indulgence of the dish.
This combination of ingredients ensures the creamy layer is thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to melt into the other layers as it bakes.
The Cheesy Topping
The final touch of this recipe is the cheesy topping, which provides the golden, bubbly finish that makes the dish irresistible.
- Mozzarella Cheese:
Mozzarella is a classic choice for baked pasta dishes because of its gooey, stretchy texture when melted. It creates a beautiful, satisfying layer that browns slightly in the oven, adding both flavor and visual appeal. - Parmesan Cheese:
Parmesan adds sharpness and a nutty flavor that complements the mild mozzarella. It also helps create a crisp, golden crust on top of the dish, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy and savory layers below.
By combining these two cheeses, you get a topping that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. For a variation, you can add cheddar or provolone to the mix for extra flavor.
These ingredients work together harmoniously to create the ultimate Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe—a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. Each layer brings something unique to the table, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Million Dollar Spaghetti
Making Million Dollar Spaghetti may seem intricate, but it’s straightforward when broken into four simple steps. Each stage of preparation builds on the previous one to create a beautifully layered, delicious casserole. Follow these steps to achieve perfection every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Meat Sauce
- Cook the Spaghetti Noodles to Al Dente:
Begin by boiling your spaghetti noodles in a large pot of salted water. Adding salt to the water enhances the flavor of the pasta. Cook the noodles al dente—this means they should be firm to the bite. This is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook while baking in the oven. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the final dish, so keep a close eye on the cooking time (usually 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain the noodles and toss them with a small amount of butter or olive oil to prevent them from sticking together. - Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a skillet, brown your ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily. Add your marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade) to the cooked beef and stir well. Enhance the flavor with a teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, or substitute with freshly minced garlic and sautéed onions for an even bolder taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Cheese Layer
The creamy layer is the highlight of this recipe, adding richness and a luxurious texture to the dish.
- Mix the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta (or sour cream), and a tablespoon of melted butter. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This step ensures the mixture spreads easily over the pasta without clumping. For added flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of garlic powder or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. - Tips for Customization:
If you prefer a tangier flavor, use sour cream instead of ricotta. For a creamier consistency, you can even add a splash of heavy cream. Adjust the proportions to match your desired texture and taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
The layering process is where the magic happens. Proper layering ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
- First Layer – Spaghetti:
Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly across the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. The spaghetti serves as the sturdy base for the layers above. - Second Layer – Creamy Cheese Mixture:
Spread the entire creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti layer. Use a spatula to ensure even coverage, making sure the creamy layer touches all edges of the dish. - Third Layer – Meat Sauce:
Pour half of the meat sauce over the creamy layer, spreading it out evenly. The savory meat sauce complements the rich creaminess of the layer below. - Repeat the Layers:
Add the remaining spaghetti as the next layer, followed by the remaining meat sauce. This creates a visually appealing, stacked effect and ensures balanced flavors throughout the dish. - Final Layer – Cheesy Topping:
Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. This final layer is what creates the golden, bubbly crust when baked.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Now it’s time to bring everything together in the oven.
- Set the Temperature and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil (this prevents the cheese from browning too quickly) and bake for 30 minutes. - Uncover for a Golden Finish:
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. If you want an extra-crispy top, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning. - Rest Before Serving:
Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll create a perfectly layered and irresistibly delicious Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe every time.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Million Dollar Spaghetti
To ensure your Million Dollar Spaghetti turns out perfect every time, here are some tried-and-true tips. From make-ahead methods to ingredient swaps, these tips will help you customize the dish to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Tips
One of the greatest things about this recipe is how easily it can be prepared in advance or frozen for future meals. Here’s how to make it work for your schedule:
- Preparing in Advance:
If you’re planning to serve this dish later, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow all the steps to layer the dish, but don’t bake it yet. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven. This prevents sudden temperature changes that could affect the baking process. - Freezing Instructions:
Million Dollar Spaghetti freezes beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. To freeze:- Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish (disposable aluminum pans work well).
- Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label it with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Frozen Spaghetti:
When ready to enjoy your frozen casserole:- Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Bake as directed in the original recipe, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to account for the chilled temperature.
- If baking from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60-75 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to achieve a golden topping.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so you can adjust it to suit your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or what you have on hand. Here are some creative substitutions and variations:
- Cheese Alternatives:
- If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute mascarpone for a milder, creamier option.
- Replace ricotta with cottage cheese for a slightly lighter and chunkier texture.
- Swap mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a sharper, more distinct flavor.
- Meat Options:
- Ground Turkey: For a leaner version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey. It’s lighter but still flavorful, especially when paired with a rich marinara sauce.
- Sausage: Italian sausage (mild or spicy) adds a bold, seasoned flavor to the dish. Use it on its own or mix it with ground beef for added depth.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat entirely and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You can also use plant-based meat crumbles as an alternative.
- Pasta Swaps:
While spaghetti is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of pasta like penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free noodles for dietary needs. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to hold its texture during baking. - Additional Flavors:
- Add a layer of sautéed onions and bell peppers for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Stir fresh basil or parsley into the marinara sauce for a burst of freshness.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture for a subtle kick of heat.
These substitutions and variations allow you to make the recipe your own while still delivering the same indulgent, layered goodness that makes it a standout dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Million Dollar Spaghetti
If you’re new to this recipe or simply want to perfect your technique, these FAQs cover some of the most common questions. From sauce selection to achieving the ideal pasta texture, here’s everything you need to know.
Can I Use Store-Bought Sauce?
- The Pros of Store-Bought Marinara Sauce:
Using a store-bought marinara sauce is convenient, especially if you’re short on time. Many quality brands offer sauces with robust flavors, making it easy to create a delicious dish without spending extra effort. Look for marinara sauces labeled “garlic and herb” or “roasted tomato” for added depth of flavor. - The Case for Homemade Sauce:
While store-bought sauces are convenient, nothing beats the taste of homemade marinara. Making your own allows you to control the ingredients, seasonings, and consistency. A homemade sauce can be tailored to your taste—whether you prefer a sweeter, spicier, or chunkier version. - The Best of Both Worlds:
If you want the ease of store-bought but crave the flavors of homemade, consider customizing a jarred sauce. Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil, then stir in the store-bought sauce with fresh herbs like basil and oregano for a semi-homemade upgrade. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of red wine can also enhance the flavor.
What’s the Best Cheese Combination?
The cheeses you choose significantly impact the flavor and texture of the dish. Here’s how to create the perfect balance:
- Classic Combination:
The traditional combination of mozzarella, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Mozzarella melts beautifully, providing that gooey, stretchy texture we all love. Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor, and cream cheese brings a velvety creaminess that ties everything together. - For Extra Flavor:
- Ricotta: Adds a light, slightly sweet creaminess that complements the savory layers.
- Provolone: For a slightly smoky and tangy twist, mix provolone with mozzarella.
- Cheddar: If you prefer a bolder, sharper flavor, add a small amount of cheddar to the mix.
- Experimentation Tips:
The best combination depends on your personal taste. You can mix cheeses in different ratios to find your perfect balance. For example, if you prefer a creamier texture, use more ricotta or cream cheese. If you love sharp flavors, increase the Parmesan or add Asiago.
How Do I Prevent the Spaghetti From Getting Mushy?
One of the most common challenges with baked pasta dishes is overcooked, mushy noodles. Follow these tips to achieve perfectly textured pasta:
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente:
The key is to cook the spaghetti to al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. This is usually about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. The pasta will continue to cook while baking, so starting with slightly firm noodles ensures they won’t turn soft and mushy. - Toss the Noodles with Sauce or Butter:
After draining the pasta, toss it with a small amount of butter or olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. For even better flavor, you can mix the noodles with a small amount of the meat sauce before layering. This helps the pasta retain its texture and prevents it from drying out. - Avoid Overbaking:
While baking the casserole is essential to melt the cheese and heat the layers, be careful not to overdo it. Baking for too long can cause the pasta to become overly soft. Stick to the recommended time and keep an eye on the dish, especially during the final minutes. - Layer Strategically:
Placing a generous layer of sauce beneath and above the pasta helps lock in moisture without letting the noodles absorb too much liquid. This creates a balance between saucy and firm textures.
These FAQs address common concerns while offering helpful tips to ensure your Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe turns out perfectly every time.
Serving Suggestions for Million Dollar Spaghetti
When you’ve perfected your Million Dollar Spaghetti, the next step is to pair it with the perfect sides, drinks, and desserts. These elements will elevate your meal and complement the rich flavors of the dish. Here are some serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Pair It with Classic Sides
Million Dollar Spaghetti is rich and hearty, so pairing it with lighter or complementary sides helps balance the meal. Here are some classic options that work wonderfully:
- Garlic Bread:
There’s no better companion for pasta than garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavor perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy layers of the spaghetti. You can make it from scratch by spreading garlic butter on slices of Italian bread and toasting them until golden. Alternatively, store-bought garlic bread works just as well for a quick fix. - Caesar Salad:
A Caesar salad adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy spaghetti. The romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, crunchy croutons, and shaved Parmesan provide a delightful crunch and brightness to balance the heaviness of the casserole. For a twist, you can use baby kale or arugula instead of romaine for a peppery edge. - Roasted Vegetables:
Roasted vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, or broccoli, bring both color and nutrition to the plate. The slightly caramelized flavors of the veggies complement the savory spaghetti without overpowering it. Plus, they add a healthy element to the meal. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before roasting at 400°F until tender and browned. - Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks:
If you want a different twist on garlic bread, serve the dish with homemade or store-bought garlic Parmesan breadsticks. The savory Parmesan enhances the meal, while the soft and crispy texture of the breadsticks offers a satisfying addition.
Drinks and Desserts That Complement the Dish
To complete your Million Dollar Spaghetti meal, think about pairing it with drinks and desserts that accentuate the flavors of the dish. Here are some delightful options:
- Wine Pairings:
The richness of the spaghetti calls for a wine that balances its flavors. Here are a few options:- Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, Sangiovese, or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the meat sauce and cheesy layers. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the dish while offering fruitiness and subtle tannins.
- White Wine: If you prefer white wine, go for a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. A lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the creamy cheese layer, while a crisp Pinot Grigio brings a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
- Mocktails:
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, mocktails are a great way to bring fresh, fruity flavors to the table. Consider serving a sparkling cranberry lime spritz or a citrus mint cooler to provide a refreshing contrast. Both drinks add a bit of zest and sweetness without overwhelming the meal. - Desserts That Pair Well:
- Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert like tiramisu is the perfect sweet finish after a hearty pasta dish. Its layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder provide a rich yet light conclusion to the meal.
- Cannoli: If you’re in the mood for something crunchy, try cannoli filled with a sweet, ricotta-based cream. The crispy shell and creamy filling provide a delightful contrast to the spaghetti’s richness.
- Lemon Sorbet: For something light and refreshing, a lemon sorbet cleanses the palate after the savory pasta. The tartness of lemon offers a fresh, citrusy note that balances the meal’s heaviness.
- Chocolate Mousse: A decadent chocolate mousse is perfect for chocolate lovers. Its airy texture and rich chocolate flavor create a satisfying end to a delicious meal.
These sides, drinks, and desserts not only complement the flavors of Million Dollar Spaghetti but also help to create a well-rounded and memorable dining experience. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these pairing ideas will elevate your meal to the next level.
Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe
This Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe has become a favorite for many, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a large group, or celebrating a special occasion, this dish will steal the show every time. Let’s explore why this recipe is such a beloved classic.
A Perfect Comfort Food for All Occasions
One of the things that makes Million Dollar Spaghetti so special is how it fits into nearly any occasion. It has all the qualities of a perfect comfort food—hearty, creamy, cheesy, and satisfying—but it’s also versatile enough to be dressed up for more formal events.
- Family Dinners:
Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back Sunday evening, this recipe is ideal for a family meal. It’s easy to prepare, doesn’t require too much hands-on time, and yields a large portion, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. Everyone, from kids to adults, will love digging into those creamy layers of pasta and cheese. - Potlucks and Parties:
Million Dollar Spaghetti is a hit at potlucks, dinner parties, or any gathering where food is shared. It’s simple to make in advance, transport, and serve in large portions. It’s always one of the first dishes to disappear at parties, as people can’t resist going back for more. The hearty flavors and filling nature of the dish make it an excellent choice for feeding a crowd. - Special Occasions:
For holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a celebratory family dinner, this dish fits right in. It feels elevated and indulgent, making it perfect for more special occasions. The layers of cheesy goodness feel luxurious, making it an impressive dish to serve without the fuss of a complicated recipe. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with other holiday classics, such as roasted meats or side dishes like green beans or salad.
Easy to Customize and Scale
Another reason this Million Dollar Spaghetti recipe is so loved is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the ingredients and portions to suit different tastes, dietary restrictions, or serving sizes.
- Customizable Ingredients:
Want a spicier version? Add red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage for an extra kick. Prefer a lighter version? Use ground turkey or chicken and opt for reduced-fat cheese options. You can even skip the meat entirely for a vegetarian version and load it up with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. The beauty of this dish lies in how you can easily tailor it to what you have on hand or your personal preferences. - Scale for Any Occasion:
This recipe is also incredibly easy to scale up or down depending on how many people you’re serving. It can be halved for a smaller meal or doubled for a larger crowd. The casserole format means you can make a big batch, store leftovers for the next day, or freeze individual portions for future meals. Whether you’re cooking for a small family dinner or a large gathering, this recipe adapts perfectly to any number of servings. - Effortless Substitutions:
Don’t have ricotta? Try cottage cheese. Prefer a different pasta? Penne or rotini work just as well. You can also adjust the cheeses used, swapping out mozzarella for provolone or Parmesan for Asiago. The sauce is just as flexible, with options for marinara, meat sauce, or a lighter white sauce. With minimal effort, you can create a completely customized version that suits your tastes or dietary needs.
Million Dollar Spaghetti isn’t just a recipe—it’s a solution for busy weeknights, an easy crowd-pleaser for large gatherings, and a comforting, indulgent dish for any special occasion. Its flexibility and deliciously creamy layers make it the perfect choice for anyone looking to serve a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal. Whether you stick to the classic or customize it to your liking, you’ll love how simple and rewarding this recipe is.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and full of rich, comforting flavors, then Million Dollar Spaghetti is exactly what you need. With its creamy cheese layers, hearty marinara sauce, and savory pasta, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, taking it to a potluck, or enjoying it on a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress.
Not only does this recipe deliver on flavor, but it’s also incredibly customizable. You can tweak it based on your preferences, dietary restrictions, or what you have in your kitchen, ensuring that it suits any occasion. The fact that it’s easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and is perfect for scaling to different serving sizes makes it a go-to option for any home cook.
Now it’s your turn to give this recipe a try! Whether you follow the classic instructions or add your personal twist, we’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add your favorite cheese or try a unique variation? Or maybe you’ve got some tips of your own to share. Leave a comment below and tell us about your experience or any changes you made to the recipe.
Try this Million Dollar Spaghetti Recipe tonight and let us know your thoughts! Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or enjoying leftovers, we’re confident it will be a hit. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious layers of comfort that only Million Dollar Spaghetti can deliver!
Looking for more pasta ideas? Check out our Ultimate Lasagna Recipe for another cheesy, comforting dinner that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.