Description: A creamy, cheesy pasta bake that’s as comforting as it is easy to make! Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. This recipe elevates the classic spaghetti bake by incorporating the rich, tangy goodness of cream cheese, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The result is a harmonious blend of savory meat sauce, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a luscious, creamy cheese layer that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente and drained. (High-quality pasta like bronze-die cut spaghetti will hold the sauce better.)
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or hot, depending on your preference). For a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat or finely diced mushrooms.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce (choose a high-quality brand or make your own for the best flavor. Look for sauces with simple ingredients and no added sugar).
- 1/2 cup onion, finely diced (yellow or white onion work well).
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (freshly minced garlic is crucial for that pungent aroma and flavor).
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and texture; allow it to come to room temperature for easy blending).
- 1/2 cup sour cream (adds a touch of tanginess and creaminess; Greek yogurt can be substituted for a slightly healthier option).
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella melts best and provides a good cheese pull).
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated Parmesan cheese has a sharper, more complex flavor than pre-grated).
- Salt and pepper, to taste (adjust the seasoning to your preference; taste as you go).
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish; adds a pop of color and freshness). A sprinkle of basil also works well.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the ground beef/sausage)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional, for extra flavor in the meat sauce)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and melting of the cheese. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Greasing the dish prevents the pasta from sticking and makes serving easier.
Step 2: Cook the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease to prevent a greasy final product. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning (if using), red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the cream cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to season the mixture. This step is crucial for creating the signature creamy texture of the dish.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole: In the same bowl you used for the cream cheese mixture (or another large bowl), toss the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until evenly coated. Make sure every strand of spaghetti is coated in the creamy sauce. This will create a rich and flavorful base for the casserole. Spread half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer. Layer half of the meat sauce over the pasta, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. This layering technique ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and cheese.
Step 5: Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This prevents the top from browning too quickly and helps to steam the pasta, ensuring it stays moist. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on the casserole during the last few minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from burning.
Step 6: Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents the pasta from being too soupy. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Why you will love this recipe
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal on the table.
The creamy, cheesy texture is irresistible. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a decadent and comforting flavor profile that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The tanginess of the cream cheese cuts through the richness of the other cheeses, creating a balanced and harmonious taste.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage, ground turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra nutrients and flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or cheddar.
This recipe is also perfect for potlucks and gatherings. It’s easy to transport and can be made ahead of time. Plus, everyone loves a good pasta bake! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests wanting more.
Finally, leftovers reheat beautifully. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying a delicious lunch the next day. Simply store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
- A simple side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, would also complement the dish well.
- Serve with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
- Top with a dollop of ricotta cheese for added creaminess.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti. Cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for easy blending.
- Drain the ground beef or sausage well to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning of the meat sauce and cream cheese mixture to your preference.
- If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt can be substituted.
- For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Freeze for later: Cooked casserole freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30-35 minutes Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving – varies depending on specific ingredients used) Note: This is an estimate, and actual values may vary.
- Calories: 550-650
- Protein: 30-40g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Its creamy, cheesy texture, combined with a flavorful meat sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, makes it a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish for a potluck, this recipe is sure to impress. The versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable pasta experience!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe calls for ground beef or Italian sausage, you can easily substitute it with other types of meat. Ground turkey, ground chicken, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives work perfectly well. You can also use cooked and shredded chicken or pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the type of meat you choose. Remember to drain any excess grease from the meat before adding the marinara sauce.
Q2: I don’t have cream cheese. Is there a substitute I can use?
A: While cream cheese is essential for the signature creamy texture of this dish, you can try using Neufchâtel cheese as a substitute. Neufchâtel is a lower-fat alternative to cream cheese and has a similar flavor profile. You can also use ricotta cheese, although it will result in a slightly different texture. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the ricotta before adding it to the mixture.
Q3: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Definitely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Some great options include bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, and diced tomatoes. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the onion and garlic until they are tender before adding the marinara sauce. You can also add roasted vegetables to the casserole before baking.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. Assemble the casserole as instructed, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze the assembled casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q5: How do I prevent the pasta from drying out while baking?
A: To prevent the pasta from drying out while baking, make sure to cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking. This will help to trap the moisture and steam the pasta, ensuring it stays moist and tender. Also, don’t overcook the pasta before adding it to the casserole. Cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Finally, make sure to use enough sauce to coat the pasta thoroughly.
