Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: A Comforting Pasta Dish
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, a comforting and delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With layers of savory ground beef, tangy spaghetti sauce, and creamy cream cheese, all topped with gooey melted cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Follow along with this simple guide to create a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and oh-so-delicious!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 (28-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 (8-ounce) tub cream cheese, softened
- 1 minced garlic clove
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Spread the softened cream cheese over the spaghetti in an even layer.
- Top the cream cheese with the remaining cooked spaghetti.
- Pour the beef mixture evenly over the top of the spaghetti in the baking pan.
5. Add the Cheese Topping:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the beef mixture.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, covering the entire surface.
6. Bake the Dish:
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the baked cream cheese spaghetti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and substitute with cooked lentils or your favorite meat alternative for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value of the dish by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture.
- Spice it Up: For a little extra kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti? Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer or have on hand. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine would all work well in this recipe.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and season it well for optimal flavor.
- Is it necessary to use both Parmesan and mozzarella cheese? While both cheeses add flavor and texture to the dish, you can customize the cheese topping according to your preference. You can use just one type of cheese or even experiment with different varieties such as provolone or cheddar.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
- How should leftovers be stored? Leftover baked cream cheese spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm them in the oven until heated through.
- What side dishes pair well with this dish? This hearty pasta dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables. Choose your favorite sides to complement the flavors of the main dish.
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze baked cream cheese spaghetti for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and bake it in the oven until heated through.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delicious and comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family. With its flavorful beef mixture, creamy cream cheese layer, and cheesy topping, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. So give it a try and enjoy the irresistible flavors of this homemade favorite!
