Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

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Introduction:
Baked cream cheese spaghetti is a decadent and comforting pasta dish that combines creamy melted cheese with flavorful spaghetti noodles. This recipe elevates traditional spaghetti by incorporating cream cheese into the sauce, resulting in a rich and creamy texture that is sure to delight your taste buds. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Origin and Cultural Significance:
The exact origin of baked cream cheese spaghetti is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in American home kitchens as a creative twist on classic spaghetti recipes. This dish combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the familiar flavors of spaghetti sauce, creating a comforting and indulgent meal. Baked cream cheese spaghetti has become a popular comfort food dish enjoyed by pasta lovers around the world.

Ingredients Quantity:

  • Spaghetti noodles: 8 ounces (about half a box)
  • Cream cheese, softened: 8 ounces
  • Spaghetti sauce: 24 ounces (homemade or store-bought)
  • Ground beef or Italian sausage: 1 pound (optional)
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 2 cups
  • Parmesan cheese, grated: 1/2 cup
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped: for garnish (optional)

Optional Additions:

  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Diced onions
  • Bell peppers
  • Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
  1. Cook the Spaghetti:
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked noodles and set aside.
  1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  1. Cook the Ground Beef or Italian Sausage (Optional):
  • In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, if needed.
  1. Assemble the Dish:
  • In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of spaghetti sauce evenly on the bottom.
  • Layer half of the cooked spaghetti noodles over the sauce.
  • Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti noodles.
  • If using, layer the cooked ground beef or Italian sausage over the cream cheese mixture.
  • Pour the remaining spaghetti sauce over the layers, spreading it evenly.
  1. Bake the Dish:
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti and sauce.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
  1. Serve and Enjoy:
  • Remove the baked cream cheese spaghetti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.
  • Serve the baked cream cheese spaghetti hot, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Tips for Success:

  • Be sure to drain the cooked spaghetti noodles well to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
  • Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, such as sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or cooked chicken.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef or Italian sausage and add extra vegetables or meat alternatives.
  • Feel free to use your favorite spaghetti sauce, whether homemade or store-bought, to suit your taste preferences.
  • Let the baked cream cheese spaghetti cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and make it easier to handle.

Nutritional Information:
The nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Conclusion and Recommendation:
Baked cream cheese spaghetti is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and flavorful spaghetti noodles, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal, and watch as everyone comes back for seconds! Enjoy the creamy, cheesy indulgence of baked cream cheese spaghetti.

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