Velvet Alfredo Noodles

In the vast, vibrant world of online culinary trends, few dishes capture attention quite like a viral sensation. Enter **TikTok Spaghetti Alfredo**, a glorious baked pasta creation that has swept kitchens and dining tables alike. This isn’t just any pasta dish; it’s a luscious combination of tender spaghetti noodles, savory meat sauce, and a rich, creamy Alfredo, all baked to golden perfection under a blanket of melted cheese. Often dubbed “Million Dollar Spaghetti” for its undeniably indulgent flavor and comforting appeal, this recipe truly offers the best of both worlds, uniting the hearty satisfaction of a classic red sauce with the luxurious creaminess of Alfredo. Perfect for a busy weeknight or an impressive family dinner, this baked Alfredo pasta guarantees smiles and full bellies.

The beauty of this Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo lies in its harmonious layers. It starts with perfectly cooked spaghetti, which serves as the foundation. On top of this, a robust tomato-based meat sauce, typically featuring ground chicken, beef, or Italian sausage, adds a depth of savory flavor. The real game-changer is the homemade, velvety Alfredo sauce, which permeates the dish with its creamy richness. Finished with a generous layer of mozzarella, this casserole is baked until bubbly and golden, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your home. This viral sensation offers a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes, elevating comfort food to a whole new level of deliciousness.

If you’re a fan of exploring popular **TikTok recipes**, you’ll likely enjoy other trending delights such as Shrimp Spaghetti, crispy Air Fryer Pasta Chips, the viral sensation Baked Feta Pasta, or a delightful breakfast treat like Chocolate Chip Banana Baked Oats. Each offers a unique culinary adventure inspired by social media’s most creative foodies.

Why This Baked Spaghetti Alfredo Will Become Your New Favorite

There’s a reason why the **TikTok Spaghetti Alfredo** trend has captivated so many home cooks. Beyond its viral appeal, this dish boasts a multitude of qualities that make it an absolute winner in any kitchen.

• It’s a Universal Crowd-Pleaser: This dish artfully blends the best elements of two beloved pasta classics: the savory, comforting notes of a rich meat sauce and the luxurious, creamy embrace of Alfredo. Whether you’re firmly on “Team Alfredo” or a staunch supporter of “Team Meat Sauce,” this baked pasta delivers a symphony of flavors that caters to every palate. It’s truly a harmonious marriage of indulgence and tradition, ensuring that everyone at the table finds something to love.
• Effortless Preparation for Maximum Flavor: Don’t let its decadent appearance intimidate you; this Million Dollar Spaghetti is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. Each step is designed to be approachable, even for novice cooks, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience. From boiling the pasta to simmering the sauces and assembling the layers, the process is intuitive, culminating in a deeply satisfying and comforting meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but only took a fraction of the time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party, feeding a hungry family on a busy weeknight, or looking for a dish to bring to a potluck, this baked Alfredo pasta rises to the occasion. Its hearty nature and universally appealing flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the recipe is easily scalable, allowing you to double or even triple the quantities to effortlessly feed a larger crowd without compromising on taste or quality.
• Customizable to Your Liking: One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its incredible versatility. While the core components are fantastic on their own, there’s ample room to tailor the dish to your personal preferences. Experiment with different ground meats, add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrients and texture, or adjust the spice level to your liking.
• Freezer-Friendly and Great for Meal Prep: This baked pasta casserole is an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Its flavors meld beautifully after a day or two in the fridge, and it freezes exceptionally well. This means you can prepare a large batch, enjoy some now, and store the rest for convenient, delicious meals later, making it a true kitchen hero.

Key Ingredients for Your Indulgent Baked Alfredo Pasta

Crafting the perfect **Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo** relies on a thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible.

For the Spaghetti Layer:

• Spaghetti Noodles: The classic choice for this dish. Use your favorite brand of dried spaghetti for a firm, toothsome bite. For variation, consider other long pastas like linguine or fettuccine, or even short pastas like penne or ziti for a different texture. If you have dietary restrictions, a good quality gluten-free pasta works beautifully.
• Water: Essential for cooking the pasta to perfection. Don’t forget to generously salt your pasta water – it’s your first chance to add flavor to the noodles!

For the Rich Alfredo Sauce:

• Unsalted Butter: This forms the base of our roux and contributes a rich, foundational flavor to the Alfredo. Using unsalted butter allows you precise control over the overall saltiness of your sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a roux with the butter, which thickens the sauce to that signature creamy consistency. For a gluten-free option, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be substituted successfully.
• Chicken Broth: Adds a savory depth to the Alfredo sauce that water alone cannot provide. Vegetable broth works as an excellent vegetarian alternative, or even plain water can be used in a pinch, though the flavor may be slightly less complex.
• Heavy Cream: The star ingredient for an undeniably luxurious and thick Alfredo sauce. While half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative, be aware that the sauce will be noticeably less rich and creamy.
• Essential Seasonings: A blend of dried Italian seasonings brings herbaceous notes, while crushed red chili flakes add a subtle warmth and a touch of excitement to the creamy sauce. Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are crucial for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.

For the Hearty Meat Sauce:

• Olive Oil: A light, neutral-flavored olive oil is perfect for sautéing the aromatics and browning the meat, imparting a delicate Mediterranean essence.
• Aromatics (Minced Garlic & Chopped Yellow Onion): These form the aromatic backbone of the meat sauce, developing a deep, savory foundation as they cook down. Fresh is always best for maximum flavor.
• Ground Meat: We use lean ground chicken for a lighter touch, but ground beef offers a more classic, robust flavor, and spicy Italian sausage can introduce a fantastic kick and depth. Feel free to use your preferred ground meat.
• Seasonings: A simple yet effective combination of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper is vital for seasoning the meat thoroughly as it cooks, bringing out its natural flavors.
• Spaghetti Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred spaghetti sauce for convenience and consistent flavor, or opt for a good quality canned tomato sauce (crushed or pureed) for a simpler, more homemade taste that you can season to your preference.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This is the crowning glory! Freshly shredded mozzarella melts more beautifully and creates a smoother, more decadent crust than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, herbaceous garnish that adds a pop of color and a fresh counterpoint to the rich flavors of the dish. Chop it just before serving for the best aroma and appearance.

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting TikTok’s Famous Baked Spaghetti Alfredo

Creating this irresistible **Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo** is a rewarding culinary journey. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly layered and flavorful baked pasta casserole.

• Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment and Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your casserole is ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. This prevents the pasta from sticking and aids in easy serving. Set the prepared dish aside.
• Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti to Perfection. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, aiming for an “al dente” texture. This means the pasta should be firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, reserving about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water before discarding the rest. The reserved pasta water can be used later to adjust the consistency of your sauces if needed.

• Step 3: Craft the Creamy Alfredo Sauce. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted and slightly shimmering, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, whisking continuously for about one minute to create a light roux. This step helps thicken the sauce. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken to your desired consistency, typically 4-5 minutes. Finally, season the Alfredo sauce generously with dried Italian seasonings, crushed red chili flakes, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Step 4: Combine Alfredo with Spaghetti. Add the cooked, drained spaghetti directly into the skillet with the prepared Alfredo sauce. Toss gently with tongs or a spatula until every strand of pasta is beautifully coated in the creamy sauce. This ensures maximum flavor in every bite. Carefully transfer the Alfredo-coated spaghetti into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Set it aside while you prepare the meat sauce.

• Step 5: Prepare the Hearty Meat Sauce. Using the same skillet (no need to clean it – the residual flavors add depth!), add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped yellow onion, and sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Next, add the ground chicken (or your chosen ground meat), breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully browned and has released its moisture. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Season the cooked meat with salt and pepper, then stir in the spaghetti sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

• Step 6: Layer the Meat Sauce and Cheese. Spoon the prepared meat sauce evenly over the Alfredo-coated spaghetti in the baking dish, spreading it gently to form a distinct layer. Then, generously sprinkle a thick, even layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the entire surface of the meat sauce. This cheese layer will melt into a golden, bubbly crust during baking, sealing in the moisture and adding incredible flavor.
• Step 7: Bake and Serve Your Masterpiece. Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and has turned a light golden brown. The edges of the pasta should be slightly crispy, and the sauces gently simmering beneath. Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish your **Spaghetti Alfredo** with freshly chopped parsley just before serving. Allow it to cool for a few minutes to set before slicing and serving warm to your eager diners.

Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Alfredo Pasta Every Time

Achieving the best possible **Million Dollar Spaghetti Alfredo** goes beyond just following the steps. These expert tips will help you elevate your dish, ensuring a flavorful and perfectly textured outcome:

• Always Cook Pasta to Al Dente: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for any baked pasta dish. Since the spaghetti will continue to cook and absorb moisture in the oven, undercooking it slightly (to al dente) ensures it remains firm and doesn’t become mushy or overcooked during baking.
• Layer Your Seasonings: Don’t rely solely on one seasoning step. Taste and adjust the seasoning for both the Alfredo and meat sauces individually as you prepare them. This layering of flavor builds complexity and ensures every component is perfectly seasoned.
• Enhance Flavor with Fresh Herbs and Veggies: For an even more vibrant dish, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to your meat sauce. You can also incorporate finely diced vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when sautéing the aromatics to boost both flavor and nutritional value.
• Opt for Freshly Grated Cheese: While pre-shredded mozzarella is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting as smoothly. Freshly grated mozzarella, and even a touch of Parmesan, will melt into a more creamy, gooey, and golden crust, significantly enhancing the texture and taste.
• Explore Different Pasta Shapes: While spaghetti is traditional for this recipe, don’t hesitate to experiment! Linguine or fettuccini noodles offer a similar long pasta experience, while shorter shapes like penne, ziti, or rigatoni can make the dish easier to scoop and serve.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always keep a small amount of the starchy pasta water. If your sauces become too thick or if the pasta seems dry after mixing, a splash of reserved pasta water can help thin the sauces to the perfect consistency and bind everything together beautifully.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: When cooking your ground meat, allow it to brown properly. This develops deep, savory “Maillard reaction” flavors that are essential to a rich meat sauce. Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam the meat instead of browning it.
• A Touch of Acidity: For the meat sauce, a tiny splash of red wine or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar can deepen the flavor and cut through the richness, adding a subtle complexity.
• Rest Before Serving: After baking, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauces to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve neat portions, and prevents the entire dish from falling apart.

Frequently Asked Questions About Million Dollar Spaghetti

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying this popular **Baked Alfredo Pasta**:

More Irresistible Pasta Recipes to Explore

If you loved this **TikTok Spaghetti Alfredo**, you’re in for a treat with these other fantastic pasta dishes:

• Chicken Spaghetti Bolognese
• Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
• Creamy Lemon Chicken Pasta
• Pasta a la Puttanesca
• Chicken Scampi Pasta
• Chili Garlic Oil Noodles

We sincerely hope you’ll enjoy discovering and preparing all the recipes we share, especially this utterly delicious **TikTok Spaghetti Alfredo**. Give it a try, savor every bite, and share your experience by rating it and passing it along to your friends and family!

If you make this recipe and love it as much as we do, please consider leaving a star rating and a comment below to let us know. Don’t forget to use our hashtag on Instagram so we can see your amazing culinary creations! For all our latest social posts and recipes, be sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on FACEBOOK |INSTAGRAM |PINTEREST. Happy cooking!

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Spaghetti Alfredo

By:

Mariam Ezzeddine

TikTok spaghetti alfredo is a tasty and simple baked pasta dish made with spaghetti noodles, meat sauce and cheesy alfredo sauce. This baked alfredo pasta has the best of both worlds when it comes to the sauce, resulting in a rich and creamy flavor and texture. It’s sometimes called “million dollar spaghetti” because it tastes so good. It’s like a million bucks!

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
30 minutes

Total Time:
40 minutes

Servings:
4

Ingredients

For Spaghetti

• 
  1 lb dried spaghetti
• 
  Water, to cook spaghetti

For Alfredo Sauce

• 
  3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 
  3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 
  ½ cup chicken broth
• 
  2 cups heavy cream
• 
  1 teaspoon dried Italian seasonings
• 
  ½ teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
• 
  ½ teaspoon salt
• 
  ½ teaspoon ground pepper

For Meat Sauce

• 
  1 tablespoon olive oil
• 
  1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 
  1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 
  1 lb ground chicken
• 
  ½ teaspoon salt
• 
  ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• 
  2 cups spaghetti sauce
• 
  2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 
  2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
• Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the water, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set the spaghetti aside.
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and add butter. Once the butter is melted, sprinkle in the flour and cook for a minute, whisking to form a roux.
• Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken, about 4-5 minutes.
• Season the Alfredo sauce with Italian seasonings, red chili flakes, salt, and ground pepper. Taste and adjust as needed.
• Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce and toss until everything is well combined and coated.
• Transfer the Alfredo-coated spaghetti to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer. Set aside.
• To the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil, followed by minced garlic and chopped onion. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
• Add the ground chicken (or chosen meat), break it up, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is browned and moisture has been released. Drain any excess fat.
• Season the meat with salt and pepper, then stir in the spaghetti sauce. Let it simmer gently for 2 minutes to meld flavors.
• Spoon the meat sauce evenly over the pasta in the baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
• Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
• Garnish the Spaghetti Alfredo with fresh chopped parsley and serve while it’s still warm.

Notes

• Cook the noodles to al dente as they continue to cook while the pasta bakes.
• Season the Alfredo and meat sauce and adjust the seasoning as necessary at each stage.
• Add more flavor by incorporating extra veggies (like mushrooms or spinach) and fresh herbs.
• Use freshly grated cheese for superior melt and texture compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• Instead of spaghetti, feel free to use linguine, fettuccini, or even shorter pasta noodles like ziti or penne.
• Reserve some of the starchy pasta water to thin the noodles or sauces if they become too thick.

Nutrition

Calories:
1332kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
104g

|

Protein:
54g

|

Fat:
79g

|

Saturated Fat:
44g

|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
6g

|

Monounsaturated Fat:
24g

|

Trans Fat:
0.4g

|

Cholesterol:
299mg

|

Sodium:
1637mg

|

Potassium:
1470mg

|

Fiber:
7g

|

Sugar:
13g

|

Vitamin A:
3175IU

|

Vitamin C:
14mg

|

Calcium:
436mg

|

Iron:
5mg

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