Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food favorite. This dish combines the heartiness of spaghetti with the creaminess of cream cheese and a rich tomato sauce to create a meal that’s both familiar and exciting. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of baked spaghetti, exploring how this creamy twist adds a new dimension to a beloved classic.
Ingredients: The Harmony of Pasta and Cream
For the Spaghetti:
- 8 ounces spaghetti, for the pasta base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for cooking
- 1/2 cup diced onion, for flavor
- 1 clove garlic, minced, for aromatic depth
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage, for the hearty protein
- 1 (24-ounce) jar of marinara sauce, for the tomato richness
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes, for optional heat
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened, for creaminess
- 1/4 cup sour cream, for a tangy kick
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for savory depth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, for a burst of herbaceous freshness
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, for melty goodness
Instructions: Crafting Your Creamy Comfort
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent.
3. Brown the Protein:
- Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Break it into smaller pieces and cook until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
4. Create the Tomato Sauce:
- Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the browned meat, stirring to combine. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6. Layer and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased baking dish, spread half of the cooked spaghetti as the bottom layer.
- Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
- Pour half of the meaty tomato sauce over the cream cheese layer.
- Repeat the layers: spaghetti, cream cheese mixture, and the remaining meaty tomato sauce.
7. Add the Cheesy Finish:
- Top the dish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake to Perfection:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and watch as this creamy, comforting classic disappears from your plate.
Tips: Perfecting Your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
- You can customize this dish with your favorite pasta shape, such as penne or rotini, for added texture.
- Experiment with different protein options like ground turkey or vegetarian crumbles for a lighter twist.
- If you enjoy a bit of crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top before baking for a golden, crispy crust.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful marriage of comforting pasta, creamy goodness, and rich tomato sauce. It offers a new perspective on a classic favorite, reminding us that even the most familiar dishes can be reinvented to delight our taste buds. Whether shared with family around the dinner table or enjoyed as leftovers for lunch the next day, this dish brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to every bite. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the creamy twist, and savor the comforting essence of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti—a dish that marries tradition with creativity in a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.
