There’s something truly magical about baked pasta dishes that brings a sense of comfort and warmth to any meal. One such dish that has firmly planted itself in my heart and kitchen is the Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese. This dish combines the tender, perfectly cooked strands of spaghetti with a rich and creamy sauce, punctuated by the tangy flavor of cream cheese. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories associated with it. I remember the first time I made this for a family gathering; the aroma wafting from the oven was irresistible, and the entire dish was devoured within minutes. It’s a recipe that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to impress guests at a potluck.
Ingredients and Their Roles
Spaghetti (12 ounces)
Spaghetti forms the base of this dish. It’s important to cook it to al dente as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven, absorbing the flavors of the sauce without becoming mushy.
Lean Ground Beef (1 pound)
The ground beef adds a hearty, savory element to the dish. It’s seasoned and cooked before being combined with the spaghetti sauce, providing a robust and satisfying meat layer.
Spaghetti Sauce (28-ounce jar)
The spaghetti sauce is a key component, bringing together all the flavors. You can choose your favorite brand or make your own if you prefer a more personalized touch.
Cream Cheese (8-ounce package, softened)
Cream cheese is the star of this recipe, adding a luscious, creamy texture and a slight tang that complements the other ingredients perfectly. It melts into the spaghetti, creating a rich and indulgent sauce.
Garlic (1 clove, minced)
Garlic enhances the overall flavor, adding a subtle hint of pungency and depth that makes the dish more aromatic and flavorful.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
This blend of herbs (typically including oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary) infuses the dish with a wonderful, aromatic flavor that is quintessentially Italian.
Garlic Salt (1 pinch)
Garlic salt adds an extra layer of seasoning, ensuring that the flavors of garlic and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)
Parmesan cheese is sprinkled on top of the dish before baking, adding a salty, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup, shredded)
Mozzarella is the final touch, melting into a golden, bubbly layer on top of the baked spaghetti, creating an irresistible cheesy crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent the spaghetti from sticking and to make cleanup easier later on.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until it is just tender (al dente), about 12 minutes. It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook when baked. Once done, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce. Add the jar of spaghetti sauce to the skillet, stir to combine, and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Mix with Cream Cheese
Place the drained spaghetti back into the large pot. Add the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt. Stir thoroughly until the cream cheese is fully melted and evenly coats the spaghetti, creating a creamy and flavorful base.
5. Assemble the Dish
Spread a small amount of the meat sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking pan. This prevents the spaghetti from sticking and adds an extra layer of flavor. Next, add the spaghetti mixture, spreading it out evenly in the pan. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the top, ensuring that it covers the spaghetti completely. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This baking time allows all the flavors to meld together and the cheese to form a delicious crust on top.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or increase the amount of vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers work wonderfully in this dish, adding both flavor and texture.
Spicy Kick
If you like your food with a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the spaghetti sauce or using a spicy spaghetti sauce. This will give the dish a delightful kick that complements the creamy sauce.
Whole Wheat Spaghetti
For a healthier option, use whole wheat spaghetti. It has a higher fiber content and a nuttier flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
Why This Recipe is Special
This Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese is a dish that brings joy and comfort with every bite. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors is universally appealing, making it a favorite among both kids and adults. Its make-ahead convenience is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prepare it in advance and simply bake when ready. The cream cheese ensures that the pasta remains creamy and luscious, while the baked layer of cheese on top adds a satisfying crunch. Its versatility allows you to customize it to suit your dietary preferences or to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest, and it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
