Introduction
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting and delicious dish that combines creamy cheese, hearty spaghetti, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It’s a perfect recipe for weeknight dinners or gatherings. This guide will walk you through the steps to create this mouthwatering dish while optimizing your content for SEO using Yoast tips.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Tips for Making Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Meal: Prep it in advance and bake when needed.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
To make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, you will need:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 jar (24 oz/680 g) marinara sauce
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and toss with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add ground beef or turkey and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese with hot spaghetti. Mix until the pasta is well-coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the spaghetti mixture, half the meat sauce, and half the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
- Top with Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for Making Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
- Use Quality Marinara Sauce: A good sauce enhances the overall flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Customize: Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta of your choice.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
What Can I Serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?
Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that will impress your family and friends. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s bound to become a household favorite. Try this recipe today and elevate your dinner table with a comforting classic.
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