Tiktok Spaghetti Recipe

In the world of viral food trends, TikTok Spaghetti has quickly risen to stardom, blending comfort food with social media magic. This dish, often known as "Million Dollar Spaghetti" on TikTok, combines a classic spaghetti base with a rich, creamy layer of cheese and a savory meat sauce, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re a TikTok enthusiast or just love trying new recipes, this TikTok Spaghetti Recipe will bring joy to your kitchen and be a surefire hit with family and friends. Read on for the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and presentation ideas that will elevate this viral sensation.

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What is TikTok Spaghetti?

TikTok Spaghetti, also known as Baked Spaghetti or Million Dollar Spaghetti, is a decadent pasta dish that layers spaghetti, a meaty tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture, all baked to perfection. The dish gets its viral appeal from its simplicity, rich flavors, and ooey-gooey cheese pull moments that TikTok foodies can’t resist. Imagine the best parts of lasagna and baked ziti, but with the comforting taste of spaghetti, all in one dish. It's perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you need a meal that’s both easy and indulgent.

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Ingredients List for TikTok Spaghetti

To recreate this viral dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Base:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• Salt for pasta water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For the Creamy Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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Substitutions and Variations

TikTok Spaghetti is versatile, and you can easily tweak it to suit your preferences:

• Meat Substitutes: Use ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or plant-based meat alternatives.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free spaghetti or your preferred gluten-free pasta.
• Cheese Choices: You can replace ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone for a creamier texture. Vegan cheese alternatives also work well for a dairy-free version.
• Spice It Up: Add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like your food with a bit of a kick.
• Low-Carb Option: For a keto-friendly version, replace the spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2. Make the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

3. Prepare the Cheese Layer

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh parsley. Mix until well blended and creamy. This mixture will add a rich and indulgent layer to the dish.

4. Assemble the TikTok Spaghetti

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large baking dish (9x13 inches works well), add a layer of the cooked spaghetti to the bottom.
3. Spoon the creamy cheese mixture over the spaghetti and spread it evenly.
4. Pour the meat sauce on top of the cheese layer, spreading it to cover the entire surface.
5. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the meat sauce.

5. Bake the Spaghetti

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

6. Let It Rest and Serve

1. Once baked, let the TikTok Spaghetti rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make it easier to slice.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

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How to Cook TikTok Spaghetti: A Step-by-Step Guide

To summarize, here’s a quick step-by-step guide:

1. Cook the spaghetti until al dente and set aside.
2. Prepare the meat sauce by browning ground beef with onions, garlic, and marinara sauce.
3. Mix the cheese layer using ricotta, cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded mozzarella.
4. Assemble the layers: spaghetti, cheese mixture, meat sauce, and top with extra cheese.
5. Bake covered for 25-30 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook your spaghetti to al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole.
• Too Much Liquid: If your sauce is too runny, the dish might become watery. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly before layering it.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Allow the baked spaghetti to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures that the layers set properly and the dish doesn’t fall apart when served.
• Not Enough Seasoning: Season each layer, especially the meat sauce and cheese mixture. This ensures that the flavors are well balanced throughout the dish.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

TikTok Spaghetti is a rich, filling dish that pairs well with lighter side dishes. Here are a few ideas for serving:

1. Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of crispy garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
2. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette will help balance the richness of the dish.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make a nutritious and colorful side dish.
4. Red Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti complements the savory meat sauce beautifully.

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How to Serve TikTok Spaghetti

This hearty dish is best served hot and fresh from the oven. You can serve it as a main course for lunch or dinner with some delicious sides. If you’re preparing this for a gathering, let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes, then slice it into squares or wedges for easy serving. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs to add a touch of freshness and flair.

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Presentation Ideas for TikTok Spaghetti

TikTok Spaghetti is a cozy, home-cooked dish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t elevate its presentation:

1. Serve in a Cast Iron Skillet: For a rustic, TikTok-worthy look, bake the spaghetti in a cast-iron skillet and serve it directly from the pan at the table.
2. Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, serve individual portions in small ceramic ramekins or dishes.
3. Garnish Generously: Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, and a few basil leaves to add both color and flavor.

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TikTok Spaghetti Recipe Tips

• Use a High-Quality Marinara Sauce: Since this is a key component of the dish, choose a high-quality marinara or make your own for a more authentic flavor.
• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed. This makes it perfect for meal prep or for feeding a crowd.
• Customize the Cheese: For extra cheesiness, mix in different cheeses like Gouda, cheddar, or provolone.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make TikTok Spaghetti in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled.

Can I freeze TikTok Spaghetti?

Absolutely! After assembling, you can freeze the unbaked dish for up to 3 months. To bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

Can I use a different pasta for TikTok Spaghetti?

Yes, you can substitute other types of pasta like penne, ziti, or fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Is TikTok Spaghetti spicy?

The recipe isn’t inherently spicy, but you can add heat with red pepper flakes or spicy sausage if you prefer a spicier dish.

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Conclusion

This TikTok Spaghetti Recipe is the ultimate comfort food dish that has taken the internet by storm. It’s creamy, cheesy, savory, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun twist on a classic Italian meal. With its layers of pasta, gooey cheese, and hearty meat sauce, it’s easy to see why this dish has become a viral sensation. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your creation on TikTok for all your foodie friends to see!

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