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Million Dollar Pasta

Creamy Million Dollar Pasta That Feels Like Home

This Creamy Million Dollar Pasta is a comforting dish that combines creamy cheeses and savory beef, creating a delicious family favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Beef Browning helps remove excess fat.
  • 12 ounces Bowtie Pasta Ideal shape for holding creamy sauce.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Gives a creamy texture.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Balances flavors with a tangy kick.
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Adds mild creaminess.
For the Flavor Boost
  • 2 tablespoons Italian Seasoning Blend of classic Italian herbs.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Speeds up prep time.
  • 2 jars Marinara Sauce Adds depth to flavor.
For the Finish
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Creates a bubbly, golden finish.
  • 1 cup Water Essential for steam during cooking.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease and set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth.
  3. Spread half of the marinara sauce in the slow cooker, then add half of the uncooked bowtie pasta. Pour the remaining marinara sauce and half of the water on top.
  4. Layer half of the cooked beef over the pasta, and spoon the creamy cheese mixture on top. Repeat the layering with remaining ingredients.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 2.5 to 3 hours, checking for pasta doneness.
  6. Once tender, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and cook for an additional 20 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with seasonal vegetables or different pasta shapes. Check pasta doneness at the 2.5-hour mark.

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