Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: A Delectable Comfort Meal

Indulge in the warmth and richness of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, the ultimate comfort meal—perfect for any weekday dinner! 😋🧀

A Taste of Home

Sink your fork into a heavenly blend of flavors with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. This dish combines the comforting familiarity of spaghetti with the creamy goodness of cheese, making it a go-to meal for families everywhere.

The Magic Ingredients

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the following ingredients:

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 oz jar marinara sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a culinary masterpiece:

  1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and onions are translucent.
  3. Simmer: Stir in the marinara sauce, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
  4. Mix and Layer: Mix the cooked spaghetti with cream cheese until evenly coated. Place half of the spaghetti in a baking dish. Layer it with half of the marinara meat sauce, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Repeat the layers.
  5. Bake: Pop it in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Total Bliss in Every Bite

With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, you’ll have this scrumptious meal ready to serve in no time. Each serving packs a punch of flavor, with approximately 620 kcal per serving, making it a satisfying option for any occasion.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for a fun twist on this classic dish.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly if cooking from cold.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Certainly! You can omit the ground beef and substitute it with your favorite meat alternative or simply load up on more veggies for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Indeed! Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti freezes well. Just portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How can I add a bit of heat to this dish?

For a spicy kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or incorporating diced jalapeños into the meat mixture.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A crisp green salad and some garlic bread make excellent accompaniments to Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, rounding out the meal perfectly.

Savor the Comfort

So, why wait? Treat yourself and your loved ones to the comforting embrace of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a household favorite in no time.

 

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