Table of Contents: Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti
Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti
There’s something magical about a dish that combines tender pasta, rich Italian sausage, creamy cheese, and tangy marinara sauce—all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, delivering layers of flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy Sunday dinner, this cheesy crock pot pasta is guaranteed to be a hit.
Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti
If you’re searching for a slow cooker baked spaghetti recipe that’s both indulgent and easy to make, look no further. This layered spaghetti casserole brings together the best of baked spaghetti and lasagna, with a creamy, cheesy filling that melts into every bite. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of Italian sausage, marinara, and a luscious cream cheese-sour cream layer creates a rich, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—swap ingredients based on what you have on hand, and it still turns out delicious.
Alternate Names & Variations
This dish goes by many names, including:
– Slow Cooker Baked Spaghetti
– Cheesy Crock Pot Pasta
– Layered Spaghetti Casserole
For a different twist, try using ground beef instead of Italian sausage or adding sautéed mushrooms and spinach for extra veggies.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti

Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti
Here’s what you’ll need:
- – 1 lb Italian sausage meat, casings removed
- – 48 oz marinara sauce
- – 1 ½ cups water
- – 1 lb spaghetti
- – 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- – 1 cup sour cream
- – 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- – 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- – Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Italian Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease.
Chef’s Tip: For extra flavor, sauté diced onions and garlic with the sausage.
2. Prepare the Creamy Layer
In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
3. Layer the Slow Cooker
– Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the crock pot.
– Break spaghetti in half and layer half over the sauce.
– Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the pasta.
– Add half of the cooked sausage and another layer of marinara.
– Repeat layers, ending with marinara and shredded mozzarella on top.
4. Cook on Low
Pour water over the top, cover, and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until pasta is tender.
Shortcut: If you’re short on time, cook on high for 2 hours, checking pasta doneness.
5. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Recipe Card (Quick Reference)
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 3–4 hours (low) | Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6–8 | Calories: ~550 per serving
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
– Perfect for Meal Prep: Assemble ahead and refrigerate overnight before cooking.
– Customizable: Swap mozzarella for provolone or add ricotta for extra creaminess.
– Kid-Friendly: Mild flavors make this a hit with picky eaters.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
– Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freeze: Portion and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
– Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through.
People Also Ask: Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti

Can I use different noodles for Million Dollar Spaghetti?
Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or even gluten-free pasta work well. Adjust cooking time as needed.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese in Million Dollar Spaghetti?
The cream cheese and sour cream mixture replaces cottage cheese, adding a richer texture.
Do you have to cook the meat before putting it in the crock pot?
Yes, browning the sausage first enhances flavor and ensures even cooking.
Can I make this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Bake at 375°F for 30–40 minutes, covered, then uncover and broil to melt the cheese.
Conclusion: Try This Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti Today!
This slow cooker baked spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, it’s a foolproof dish that never disappoints.
Did you try this recipe? Share your results in the comments or tag us on social media!
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Print
Crock Pot Million Dollar Spaghetti
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A rich, creamy, and cheesy slow-cooked spaghetti casserole layered with ground beef, marinara, and a luscious cream cheese mixture – comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in marinara sauce. Set aside.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth.
- Lightly grease the bottom of your crock pot.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by half of the cheese mixture, then half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
You can prepare this a day ahead and refrigerate before slow cooking. Great for potlucks and family dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: million dollar spaghetti, crock pot, pasta bake, cheesy casserole