Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is like a warm hug from your favorite aunt—comforting, indulgent, and just the right amount of cheesy. Picture this: a bubbling, golden-brown casserole topped with melted cheese that oozes as you serve it. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that dances on the taste buds. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for cozy family dinners or unexpected guests.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a bowl. I remember making baked spaghetti with cream cheese during cold winter nights when all we wanted was something warm and satisfying. We gathered around the table, forks at the ready, sharing stories and laughter while devouring this creamy delight. Whether it’s a rainy day or a festive gathering, this recipe brings everyone together, creating moments worth savoring.
Why You'll Love This baked spaghetti with cream cheese
- This incredible baked spaghetti with cream cheese transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious baked spaghetti with cream cheese:
-
Spaghetti: About 12 ounces of spaghetti will do; opt for whole grain or gluten-free if needed.
-
Cream Cheese: Use an 8-ounce block of full-fat cream cheese for maximum creaminess.
-
Ground Beef: One pound of lean ground beef works best; feel free to substitute turkey or plant-based options.
-
Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite marinara sauce adds rich flavor; homemade sauce is always a bonus!
-
Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar (about two cups) provides that gooey topping we all crave.
For the Seasoning:
-
Italian Seasoning: A tablespoon will elevate the flavors; adjust according to your taste.
-
Garlic Powder: Use one teaspoon for that aromatic kick; fresh garlic is also a fantastic option!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious baked spaghetti with cream cheese:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to stir occasionally to avoid those pesky clumps!
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Mixture
While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brown until fully cooked—about five to seven minutes—and drain excess fat.
Step 4: Mix It Up
In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cream cheese (softened), marinara sauce, and half of your shredded cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy—this is where magic happens!
Step 5: Assemble
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining shredded cheese. Trust me; you want that glorious layer on top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional ten minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve hot straight from the oven! Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara if desired for that perfect finishing touch.
Now you’ve got yourself an unforgettable baked spaghetti with cream cheese! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about those cozy family moments—or perhaps creating new memories around this delightful dish!
You Must Know About baked spaghetti with cream cheese
- This showstopping baked spaghetti with cream cheese delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
To achieve the best results when preparing baked spaghetti with cream cheese, start by boiling your pasta until al dente. While the pasta cooks, sauté any vegetables or proteins you want to include. Finally, combine everything in a baking dish and top it off with your creamy goodness.
Flavor Your Way
Get creative with baked spaghetti with cream cheese! Swap out the cream cheese for ricotta or cottage cheese for a lighter version. Add spinach for extra nutrition or sprinkle some crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. The world is your oyster!
Storing & Reheating
To store your baked spaghetti with cream cheese, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to keep it moist and bake until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips for baked spaghetti with cream cheese
Every time I whip up this baked spaghetti with cream cheese, I’m reminded of my friend’s reaction when they took their first bite—eyes wide, mouth agape! It was like I’d just served them a piece of heaven; they’ve been begging me for the recipe ever since!
FAQs
What is baked spaghetti with cream cheese?
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is a delicious twist on traditional spaghetti dishes. This comforting meal combines cooked spaghetti noodles with a creamy blend of cream cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella. The result is a rich and flavorful casserole that’s easy to prepare and perfect for families or gatherings. The cream cheese adds a delightful creaminess that elevates the dish, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.
How do I make baked spaghetti with cream cheese?
To make baked spaghetti with cream cheese, start by cooking your spaghetti until al dente. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with marinara sauce and half of the mozzarella. Mix in the cooked spaghetti until well-coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella, and bake until bubbly and golden. This simple recipe yields a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Can I customize my baked spaghetti with cream cheese?
Absolutely! You can customize your baked spaghetti with cream cheese easily to suit your taste. Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or parmesan, to create your own unique version of this comforting dish.
How long does baked spaghetti with cream cheese last?
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese can last up to 3-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving for the best taste.
Conclusion
In summary, baked spaghetti with cream cheese is an easy yet indulgent dish that combines simple ingredients into a delightful meal. From its creamy texture to its rich flavors, this recipe is perfect for any occasion or family dinner. Feel free to customize it according to your preferences and enjoy every bite! Whether you’re preparing it for guests or just treating yourself, baked spaghetti with cream cheese never disappoints.
Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is a comforting casserole that layers al dente spaghetti in a creamy blend of cream cheese and marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for a golden finish. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, delivering heartwarming flavors that bring everyone together.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning; drain excess fat.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
