Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting and delicious dish that everyone will love. It combines the classic taste of spaghetti with rich cream cheese and savory ground beef, all baked together to create a warm and cozy meal. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish brings together flavor and ease in the best way possible.
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Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy texture adds a delightful twist to traditional spaghetti, making it stand out. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to please a crowd. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, everyone will enjoy digging into this tasty baked dish.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is easy and requires just a few steps. Follow this simple recipe, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add cream cheese, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat mixture.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Once your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is hot and bubbly, it’s ready to serve! Scoop out portions onto plates or into bowls. This dish pairs nicely with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread. Enjoy it hot for the best flavor!
How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and it can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a little spice, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- If you want a crispy top, bake it a bit longer or broil it for a few minutes at the end, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of meat or even going meatless. Ground turkey or Italian sausage can be good alternatives, or you can replace the meat with your favorite vegetables or plant-based proteins.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a healthier option and will work perfectly in this recipe.What can I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?
It goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. Choose whatever you like to make a complete meal.
Now you have a simple and delightful recipe for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti to enjoy with family and friends!
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Ingredients
Pasta and Dairy
- 12 oz spaghetti Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option if desired.
- 8 oz cream cheese Let it soften before mixing for easier blending.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For a crispy top, bake a bit longer or broil at the end.
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or Italian sausage.
- 1 small onion, chopped Adds flavor to the meat mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall taste.
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Can add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust based on personal preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is no longer pink; drain.
- Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add cream cheese, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat mixture.
Baking
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Serve hot.
