Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti – Experience the embrace of our Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti recipe. This delightful dish brings together the decadence of cream cheese, seasoned ground beef, and a blend of cheeses all baked to perfection until bubbly. As the savory aroma wafts through your kitchen get ready to indulge in a fusion of American flavors that will leave your taste buds tingling.
Imagine this; It was a cozy evening when I decided to surprise my family with a pasta creation. Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. The very name intrigued both my husband and child. As our home filled with the mouthwatering scent memories flooded back of the first time I tasted this dish. The combination of creamy goodness and savory notes won me over instantly; it was clear that this would become a favorite, among us.
What makes this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti truly special?
Experience the captivating blend of flavors in our Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, where velvety cream cheese beautifully intertwines with seasoned ground beef enveloping perfectly cooked spaghetti in a luxurious embrace. This dish isn’t a meal; it’s an adventure for your taste buds and senses—a tantalizing symphony of textures where layers of gooey parmesan and mozzarella cheeses grace the creation forming a brown crust that is as visually stunning as it is delectable, on the palate.
This recipe is a masterpiece combining decadence and simplicity to create a dish that’s perfect, for both casual dinners and memorable celebrations. It showcases the talent of turning ingredients into an unforgettable symphony of flavors that will leave a lasting impression.
What You Need To Make This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe?
Lean ground beef: Opt for ground beef with a lower fat content to maintain a rich flavor without excessive grease. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner alternative.
Spaghetti pasta: Use high-quality spaghetti for the best texture and taste. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it retains a slight bite, perfect for absorbing the sauce.
Pasta sauce: Choose a pasta sauce that aligns with your flavor preferences – marinara, tomato basil, or even a spicy arrabbiata for a kick.
Homemade pasta sauce can be a flavorful alternative.
Cream cheese: Invest in a reputable brand of cream cheese for a smooth and creamy consistency. Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easy incorporation into the dish.
Garlic salt: Garlic salt adds depth to the dish’s seasoning. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference, starting with a conservative pinch.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic delivers a robust flavor. Use a garlic press or finely mince the clove for even distribution.
Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning offers a blend of herbs for a well-rounded flavor. Consider making your own Italian seasoning mix for a customized touch.
Grated parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan cheese provides an authentic nutty flavor. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it might contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Mozzarella cheese: Use part-skim mozzarella for a healthier option that still delivers great melting properties. Shred the mozzarella yourself for better texture and melting characteristics.
Steps To Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a pot bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt. Follow the instructions on the spaghetti package to cook it.
Step 3: Meanwhile in a skillet over medium heat brown the ground beef. Remove any fat and mix in the pasta sauce. Let the flavors blend together while stirring.
Step 4: Once the spaghetti is cooked al dente drain it. Transfer it to a spacious bowl.
Step 5: Combine the cream cheese, garlic, garlic salt, and Italian seasoning with the spaghetti. Stir well until the cream cheese creates a creamy coating.
Step 6: Pause for a moment to enjoy the scents wafting through your kitchen. They hold the promise of something extraordinary.
Step 7: Lightly grease a casserole dish. Spread a layer of meat sauce on its bottom.
Step 8: Gently place the creamy spaghetti over the sauce allowing it to nestle in its embrace.
Step 9: Generously spoon over remaining meat sauce, onto every part of spaghetti so that each bite is a fusion of flavors.
Step 10: Sprinkle parmesan cheese as if sprinkling fairy dust followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 11: With anticipation put the casserole dish into your oven. Bake it for around 30 to 35 minutes. Until the cheese turns that desired brown color we all love.
Step 12: Once you hear the timer go off gently remove your creation. The cheese should be beautifully bubbly. The delicious smells will surely tempt you.
Step 13: To add a touch don’t forget to sprinkle some parmesan on top. It’s a must.
Tip:
To add a depth of flavor you can start by sautéing chopped onions and bell peppers before incorporating the ground beef. These fragrant vegetables contribute a sweetness and a hint of color, to the dish enhancing its taste and visual appeal. Cook them until they become tender and slightly caramelized and then proceed to blend them with the beef taking your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti to a level of gastronomic pleasure.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Sure! Ground turkey is an option if you prefer a lean alternative, to ground beef. It adds flavor that can really enhance the dish.
Can I make this ahead of time and refrigerate it?
Absolutely! You can definitely make this ahead of time. Refrigerate it. Just make sure to cover it before placing it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it simply reheat it in the oven until it’s heated through.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Certainly! If you want to add some goodness go ahead. Include sautéed bell peppers, onions or mushrooms in the recipe. It will not only boost the value but also add some delightful flavors to your dish.
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 16 oz. spaghetti pasta
- 28 oz. pasta sauce
- 8 oz. cream cheese
- 1 pinch of garlic salt
- 1 clove of garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ c. grated parmesan cheese
- ½ c. shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until it is firm but not mushy. Drain the water.
- In a skillet cook ground beef until it turns brown. Remove any fat.
- Add pasta sauce to the skillet. Let it simmer.
- In a bowl combine the spaghetti with cream cheese, garlic salt, minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
- In a casserole dish layer the meat sauce, spaghetti mixture and remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella, over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the oven, for 30 to 35 minutes. Until it becomes bubbly and golden.
- Before serving sprinkle some parmesan on top. Enjoy your meal!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
