If you’re craving a hearty and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than Creamy Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese. This indulgent dish combines tender spaghetti noodles, savory ground beef, rich cream cheese, and gooey melted cheese for a comforting meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this creamy baked spaghetti is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish, along with some tips, variations, and keto-friendly options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to suit your taste.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional for this recipe, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil to prevent it from drying out.
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 (28-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 pinch garlic salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
Step 4: Add the Spaghetti Sauce
- Pour the jar of spaghetti sauce into the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir to combine and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
- Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti.
- Top with the remaining spaghetti.
- Pour the ground beef and spaghetti sauce mixture over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the foil from the baking dish and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the creamy baked spaghetti with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, fontina, or asiago, for added flavor.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles for the traditional pasta to reduce the carb content of the dish.
- Keto-Friendly: This dish is already quite keto-friendly, as it’s high in protein and fat. Just be mindful of the carb content of the spaghetti sauce and adjust accordingly to fit your macros.
Creamy Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese mixture, savory ground beef, and tender spaghetti noodles, it’s a satisfying and delicious meal that will please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this creamy baked spaghetti is sure to impress. So why wait? Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that everyone will love!
