When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich, bold flavors of Creamy Mexican Million Dollar Pasta. This casserole brings together spicy taco-seasoned beef, a luscious creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all topped with gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to leave everyone satisfied and asking for more.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Mexican Million Dollar Pasta

This pasta is the perfect fusion of Tex-Mex spices and classic comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, loaded with layers of flavor, and versatile enough to customize to your liking. Here’s why you’ll want to make it tonight:

• Flavorful Layers: From the savory meat sauce to the creamy cheese blend, every bite is packed with deliciousness.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, hearty meal.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish tastes just as good (if not better) the next day.

Ingredients for Creamy Mexican Million Dollar Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need for this mouthwatering recipe:

For the Meat Mixture:

Ingredient	Quantity
Lean ground beef	1 pound
Taco seasoning packet	1
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon
Onion powder	1 teaspoon
Ground cumin	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Onion (small-diced)	1
Green bell pepper (diced)	1
Tomato sauce	15 ounces
Enchilada sauce	10 ounces

For the Creamy Layer:

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter	1/2 cup
Garlic (minced)	4 cloves
Heavy cream	2 cups
Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Monterey jack cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Cooked spaghetti noodles	16 ounces

For the Topping:

Ingredient	Quantity
Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Monterey jack cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Fresh cilantro (chopped, optional)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef.
2. Break up the beef into crumbles and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
3. If there’s excess grease, drain it before proceeding.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in the tomato sauce and enchilada sauce. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and Monterey jack cheese.
4. Add the salt and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing until evenly coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Pour the creamy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
2. Spread the meat sauce evenly over the top of the pasta.
3. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses over the meat sauce.

5. Bake the Pasta

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese topping is fully melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Pasta

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook your spaghetti, as it will finish cooking in the oven.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Add Spice: For a kick, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the meat mixture.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake when ready to serve.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/8th)
Calories	520
Protein	28g
Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	4g
Sodium	950mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
• Beverages: Pair with a refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or a light Mexican lager.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQs About Creamy Mexican Million Dollar Pasta

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.

2. Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Use gluten-free spaghetti and check that your taco seasoning and enchilada sauce are gluten-free.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Ensure your enchilada sauce is vegetarian.

4. How do I freeze this casserole?
Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and freeze it before baking. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Diced zucchini, corn, or black beans make excellent additions to the meat mixture.

6. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

Conclusion: Make Creamy Mexican Million Dollar Pasta Tonight!

Creamy Mexican Million Dollar Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors, hearty textures, and a touch of spice. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your home. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and absolutely delicious.

Ready to try it for yourself? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat your family to this irresistible dish tonight!

Print