Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a hearty casserole, and this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole quickly became a family favorite in my household. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with robust spaghetti sauce and tender pasta is simply irresistible. My kids rave about it, and I love how easy it is to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish fits perfectly into our meal rotation. It’s a wonderful way to combine classic Italian flavors with a creamy twist that everyone enjoys!

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 (26 oz) jar prepared spaghetti sauce
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Preheat oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the ground beef:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the spaghetti sauce and set aside.
3. Prepare the spaghetti:
   In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and place the cooked spaghetti in a large mixing bowl.
4. Add cream cheese mixture:
   To the bowl with the spaghetti, add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Stir well until the cream cheese is fully melted and coats the spaghetti.
5. Layer the casserole:
   Spread a small amount of the meat sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the spaghetti mixture on top, then pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake:
   Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is lightly golden.
7. Serve:
   Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 39g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 24g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve directly from the oven for the best experience.
• Garnish: Top with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Sides: Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Leftovers: Reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick lunch or dinner.

Additional Tips

1. Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese: For a lighter version, substitute with low-fat cream cheese.
2. Add Vegetables: Sneak in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
3. Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor.
4. Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it until baking.
5. Beef Alternatives: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for some heat.
• Italian Sausage: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage for a more robust flavor.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like oregano or basil into the cream cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

• Salad: A side Caesar or garden salad complements the rich casserole beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a hearty, comforting meal.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, for an Italian-inspired dining experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
   Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used for a healthier option.
2. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
   Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before and bake it when you’re ready.
3. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
   You can substitute it with ricotta cheese for a different texture and flavor.
4. Can I make it gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your spaghetti sauce is also gluten-free.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
6. Can I add more cheese?
   Yes! Feel free to increase the amount of mozzarella or add other cheeses.
7. Is this dish spicy?
   It’s not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.
8. How long does it take to bake from frozen?
   From frozen, bake for 60-75 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until heated through.
9. Can I use a different meat?
   Yes, ground turkey or Italian sausage work well as alternatives.
10. What should I serve with it?
    A simple salad or garlic bread pairs well with this casserole.

Conclusion

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings a taste of home-cooked goodness to your table. Its creamy texture combined with the rich flavors of spaghetti sauce and ground beef makes it a hit among kids and adults alike. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also makes for excellent leftovers, ensuring you can enjoy this dish for days. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this casserole will surely please everyone. Give it a try, and enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!

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