The Irresistible Comfort of Creamy Baked Spaghetti
If you’re looking for a cozy and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, creamy baked spaghetti is the perfect dish to add to your menu. This delicious recipe combines tender spaghetti noodles, a rich and creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy & Cheesy: The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a luscious, cheesy bite in every forkful.
- Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with ground beef or Italian sausage and a savory tomato sauce, this dish is both filling and flavorful.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This baked spaghetti can be made in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating.
- Great for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to double for potlucks or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the spaghetti noodles in the greased baking dish. Layer with half of the cream cheese mixture, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, then top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Baked Spaghetti
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Let it Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, mix in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Creamy baked spaghetti is a go-to recipe when you want a satisfying, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Try it for your next family dinner and enjoy the rich, creamy goodness!
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