Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

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Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make on a busy weeknight? Look no further than Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti! This delectable dish combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with savory ground beef and tangy marinara sauce, all baked to perfection with gooey mozzarella cheese. With simple ingredients and straightforward directions, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound of spaghetti
  • 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup of sour cream
  • 1 pound of ground beef
  • 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your dish is prepared.
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it reaches al dente perfection. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the sour cream until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This creamy layer will add a delightful richness to the dish.
  4. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning into the cooked ground beef, creating a flavorful sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Now, it’s time to assemble the dish. In a baking dish, start by layering half of the cooked spaghetti.
  7. Next, spread the creamy mixture of cream cheese and sour cream over the spaghetti layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
  8. Spoon the beef sauce over the cream cheese layer, covering it completely.
  9. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the beef sauce layer, adding a generous amount for that irresistible cheesy goodness.
  10. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining spaghetti, followed by the cream cheese mixture, beef sauce, and finally, the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
  11. Once all the layers are assembled, place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
  12. Once baked to perfection, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish with fresh herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the baked spaghetti for a pop of color and added freshness.
  2. Serve with garlic bread: Accompany your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti with warm, buttery garlic bread or a side of crusty breadsticks for a complete and satisfying meal.
  3. Pair with a salad: Balance out the richness of the dish by serving it alongside a crisp, refreshing salad tossed with your favorite dressing. A simple mixed green salad or a classic Caesar salad would complement the flavors beautifully.
  4. Customize toppings: Let everyone personalize their portions by setting out bowls of additional toppings such as grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, or diced green onions for a customizable touch.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to the container to maintain its freshness.
  2. Reheating: To reheat individual servings, simply microwave them on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For larger portions, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
  3. Freezing: While this dish can be frozen, it’s best to assemble and bake it first, then allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, tightly wrap the baking dish with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the above instructions.

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, omit the ground beef and instead add sautéed vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the marinara sauce. You can also incorporate vegetarian meat substitutes like crumbled tofu or tempeh for added protein.
  2. Chicken Alfredo Twist: Swap the marinara sauce for Alfredo sauce and replace the ground beef with cooked, diced chicken breast or rotisserie chicken. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped spinach for a creamy and indulgent twist on the classic dish.
  3. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spice up the dish by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef sauce mixture. You can also incorporate spicy Italian sausage or chorizo for an extra kick of flavor.
  4. Mediterranean Flair: Give the dish a Mediterranean twist by using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the cream cheese mixture. Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese to the layers for a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
  5. Tex-Mex Fusion: Create a Tex-Mex inspired version by replacing the marinara sauce with salsa and adding cooked black beans, corn kernels, and diced green chilies to the beef mixture. Top with a blend of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a cheesy, south-of-the-border delight.
  6. Pesto Perfection: Substitute the marinara sauce with pesto sauce for a vibrant and aromatic variation. Toss cooked spaghetti with pesto sauce before layering it with the cream cheese mixture and beef sauce. Top with pine nuts and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
  7. Seafood Sensation: Incorporate seafood into the dish by adding cooked shrimp, crab meat, or chunks of lobster to the beef sauce mixture. Enhance the seafood flavor by mixing in a touch of seafood seasoning or Old Bay seasoning.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?
    • Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer for this recipe. Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine would all work well.
  2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Can I substitute cottage cheese for the cream cheese?
    • While cottage cheese can be used as a substitute, keep in mind that it will alter the texture and flavor of the dish slightly. Cream cheese provides a richer and creamier consistency.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?
    • Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this dish for future meals. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers before freezing.

With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and gooey cheese topping, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort meal that’s perfect for any weekday dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this easy-to-make dish is sure to impress. So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow these simple directions, and treat yourself to a delightful culinary experience tonight!