Step 1: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: While spaghetti cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it gently simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese. Mix until smooth and well combined. This forms the creamy layer for your million dollar spaghetti recipe.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 6: Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. You can toss the spaghetti with a tiny bit of olive oil first to prevent sticking, or a spoonful of the meat sauce.
Step 7: Carefully spread the creamy cottage cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the creamy layer.
Step 8: Top with the remaining cooked spaghetti, spreading it out evenly. This forms the second pasta layer of your million dollar spaghetti recipe.
Step 9: Pour the entire meat sauce mixture over the top spaghetti layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Step 10: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil (you may want to spray the underside of the foil with non-stick spray to prevent cheese from sticking). Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. This helps achieve that perfect million dollar spaghetti recipe crust.
Step 11: Let the million dollar spaghetti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes for easier serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.