Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti – Indulge in the mouthwatering goodness of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, a delightful combination of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a creamy twist of cream cheese. This recipe is a true winner, guaranteed to please your taste buds and leave you craving more. Discover the magic of this cheesy masterpiece, which brings together classic Italian flavors with a comforting, oven-baked twist. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will make your family and friends beg for seconds!
Picture this: it’s a cozy evening at home, and the aroma of a tantalizing dish wafts through the air. The whole family gathers eagerly around the dining table, excited for their favorite meal—Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. As you serve the first spoonful, you can see the delight in their eyes. Each bite transports them to a world of cheesy goodness and rich flavors. This recipe has become a beloved staple in our household, not only for its incredible taste but also for the cherished memories it creates. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish brings us all together and reminds us of the joy of good food and shared moments.
Why This Creamy Twist Will Change Your Spaghetti Game?
- A fusion of classic spaghetti and creamy delight: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti combines the comforting flavors of traditional spaghetti with a creamy twist, thanks to the luscious addition of cream cheese. It’s a match made in pasta heaven!
- Bursting with flavor: The dish features a savory blend of ground beef, diced green pepper, onions, and aromatic Italian seasoning, all simmered together in a rich spaghetti sauce. Each bite is a burst of harmonious flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
- Creamy, cheesy perfection: The cream cheese melts into the cooked spaghetti, infusing it with velvety smoothness and a delightful tang. Topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, this dish achieves the ultimate level of cheesy perfection.
- Easy to make, perfect for any occasion: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible to both beginner and experienced cooks. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a potluck, or simply want to treat yourself to a comforting homemade meal, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a winner every time.
Ingredients:
- 340g (12 oz.) spaghetti
- 1 jar (794g / 28 oz.) prepared spaghetti sauce
- 15g (1 Tbsp.) olive oil
- 454g (1 lb.) lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced green pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 227g (8 oz.) cream cheese, room temperature and cut into chunks
- 57g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 113g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 glass baking dish with oil.
Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and return them to the pot.
While the noodles are still hot, add the cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic to the pot. Mix everything thoroughly until the cream cheese is fully melted and coats the noodles.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil and brown the ground beef along with the diced green peppers and onions. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the spaghetti sauce to the skillet with the ground beef mixture and stir well to combine all the flavors.
Spread a small amount of the ground beef mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish to cover the surface.
Pour the spaghetti mixture over the ground beef layer, ensuring the noodles are evenly distributed.
Pour the remaining ground beef mixture on top of the noodles.
Sprinkle 57g (1/4 cup) of grated Parmesan cheese over the dish, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is golden and melted to perfection.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of freshness.
Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and make it easier to portion out.
Notes:
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables or spices that you enjoy. Mushrooms, zucchini, or olives can be wonderful additions.
- For a lighter version, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or halved to accommodate larger or smaller gatherings.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy again.
In conclusion, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a recipe that combines the comfort of traditional spaghetti with a creamy twist that will leave you craving more. Its irresistible flavors, cheesy goodness, and simple preparation make it a must-try dish for any pasta lover. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner option or a cozy meal for your little family, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
The blend of tender pasta, savory ground beef, and the smoothness of cream cheese creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that will transport you to a world of culinary delight. The melted mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top add an extra layer of cheesiness that will make your taste buds dance with joy.
Not only is Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti a delicious dish, but it also carries the power to create cherished memories. As you gather around the table with your loved ones, savoring each bite, you’ll create moments that will be etched in your hearts forever. From special occasions to cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe has the versatility to fit any occasion.
So, why wait? Take the leap and give Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti a try. Experience the joy of indulging in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that will make your taste buds sing and leave you longing for more. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and let the oven work its magic. Get ready to embark on a flavorful adventure that will delight your senses and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like veggie crumbles or diced mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While spaghetti is traditionally used in this recipe, you can certainly experiment with different pasta shapes. Penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni can work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a convenient option for meal planning or when you want to save time on busy days.
What can I serve alongside Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?
This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. It’s also delicious on its own as a complete and satisfying meal.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 340 g 12 oz. spaghetti
- 1 jar 794g / 28 oz. prepared spaghetti sauce
- 15 g 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 454 g 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced green pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 227 g 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature and cut into chunks
- 57 g 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 113 g 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 glass baking dish with oil.
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and return them to the pot.
- While the noodles are still hot, add the cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic to the pot. Mix everything thoroughly until the cream cheese is fully melted and coats the noodles.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil and brown the ground beef along with the diced green peppers and onions. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the spaghetti sauce to the skillet with the ground beef mixture and stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Spread a small amount of the ground beef mixture in the bottom of the prepared baking dish to cover the surface.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture over the ground beef layer, ensuring the noodles are evenly distributed.
- Pour the remaining ground beef mixture on top of the noodles.
- Sprinkle 57g (1/4 cup) of grated Parmesan cheese over the dish, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is golden and melted to perfection.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of freshness.
- Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld together and make it easier to portion out.
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