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A baked spaghetti dish that is surprisingly cheesy and creamy. It’s comfort food at its best, and the easiest!
An Engaging Introduction
There’s nothing quite like digging into a warm, cheesy, and creamy baked spaghetti dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those days when you just need a little indulgence. Forget about post-holiday detoxes and health kicks for a moment, and allow yourself to enjoy this deliciously satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. You’ll love how the layers of spaghetti, cream cheese, sour cream, and a rich meat marinara sauce come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to cozy up in your favorite stretchy pants as you savor each bite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- 9×13 baking dish
- Small bowl
- Whisk
A Detailed List of Ingredients
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9×13 baking dish or coat it with non-stick spray.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions; drain well.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onion, and cook until the beef is browned, about 3 to 5 minutes, making sure to crumble it as it cooks; season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain off any excess fat.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, parsley, and red pepper flakes; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cream cheese and sour cream.
- Add the cooked pasta to the prepared baking dish and cover with the cream cheese mixture and beef mixture; sprinkle with both cheeses.
- Place in the oven and bake until bubbling and heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnishing with parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Be sure to cook the spaghetti just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- For a richer flavor, let the meat sauce simmer for a few extra minutes so the flavors meld together.
Additional Tips or Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with your favorite vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella or Parmesan for a unique twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While this dish is all about indulgence, here are some nutritional highlights:
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve got all the steps and tips, it’s time to get cooking! This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try. Bon appétit!
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