Baked Spaghetti With Cream Cheese Casserole
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the pure satisfaction of a Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe. This mouthwatering combination of pasta, cream cheese, and savory sauce is a delightful treat for your taste buds. In this article, we will take you on a culinary journey, sharing a step-by-step guide to creating this delectable dish. So, don your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get cooking!
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To embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
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| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 12 ounces |
| Ground Beef | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic Cloves | 2, minced |
| Cream Cheese | 8 ounces |
| Tomato Sauce | 24 ounces |
| Italian Seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 2 cups, shredded |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | For garnish |
Let’s Get Cooking
Preparing the Pasta
- Boil the Spaghetti: Begin by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Meat Sauce
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Tomato Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir well to combine.
- Season to Perfection: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Creamy Cheese Filling
- Creamy Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, soften the cream cheese. You can do this by microwaving it for about 30 seconds or leaving it at room temperature until it’s easy to work with.
- Mix and Mingle: Blend the softened cream cheese with half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it’s creamy and smooth.
Layering the Dish
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Layer It Up: Begin by spreading a layer of cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the baking dish. Next, add a layer of the creamy cream cheese mixture, followed by a layer of the meat sauce. Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat and Finish: Continue layering until you’ve used all your ingredients. Finish with a generous topping of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Baking to Perfection
- Bake It: Place your prepared dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serving and Garnishing
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Once your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is out of the oven, garnish it with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a family dinner or special gathering. The combination of the silky cream cheese and savory meat sauce is simply irresistible.
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FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works wonderfully in this recipe.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian? A: To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ground meat and use a meatless substitute or extra veggies.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q: What can I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?A: A crisp green salad and some garlic bread make excellent side dishes.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Certainly! Just ensure proper packaging, and it can be a quick and delicious meal for another day.
Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: Of course! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes.
In the world of comfort food, the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe stands as a timeless classic. Its rich and creamy texture combined with the hearty meat sauce creates a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe will make you the star of the kitchen. So, go ahead, give it a try, and let your taste buds revel in the delight of this cheesy masterpiece.
If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and bound to impress, the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is the answer. Its delectable blend of flavors and textures makes it a winner in any kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and savor the magic of this culinary masterpiece.
