Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound spaghetti; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1 pound ground beef; 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in the form of food. This dish combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with the beloved classic, spaghetti, making it a favorite across various age groups. Known for its gooey, cheesy goodness, this recipe transforms the ordinary spaghetti dinner into a creamy, decadent feast. It’s perfect for those evenings when only a hearty dish will do, providing both comfort and flavor in every bite.

As a staple in the realm of comfort food, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti often features at family gatherings and cozy dinner nights. It’s an exemplary dish that highlights the versatility and universal appeal of pasta, especially when enriched with a luscious, cheesy sauce. You can explore the history of pasta to appreciate its journey from simple beginnings to gourmet innovations like this one.

Detailed Recipe and Cooking Instructions

To embark on creating your own Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound of spaghetti
1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
1 cup of sour cream

1 pound of ground beef
1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
1 teaspoon of garlic powder

1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a bowl, blend the cream cheese with sour cream until smooth.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; drain the excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning into the beef and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

In a baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti, top with the cream cheese mixture, followed by the beef sauce, and sprinkle half the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

For a deeper understanding of the ingredients, particularly the types of cheese used in cooking, consider visiting this Wikipedia article on Cheese.

Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Nutritional Information

The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is not only delicious but also offers a range of nutritional benefits, thanks to its diverse ingredients. A single serving typically contains significant amounts of protein and calcium, primarily from the ground beef and cheeses. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content:

Calories: Approximately 635 per serving
Protein: High due to beef and cheese

Fat: Includes both saturated and polyunsaturated fats from cheese and beef
Carbohydrates: Primarily from spaghetti, providing energy

While this dish is hearty, those watching their diet might consider modifications to reduce calories or fats, such as using low-fat cheese options or lean ground beef. Understanding these nutritional aspects helps in making informed dietary choices. For more on how different ingredients contribute to a meal, explore this link on the benefits of cream cheese in recipes.

Variations of the Recipe

One of the joys of cooking is adapting recipes to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some delightful variations of the classic Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti that you might consider:

Meat Alternatives: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or go vegetarian with plant-based meat substitutes.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses such as ricotta or goat cheese for a unique flavor profile. Discover more about types of cheese used in cooking.

Sauce Options: While marinara is traditional, trying out a pesto or alfredo sauce can add a new dimension to the dish.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: For those with dietary restrictions, gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cream cheese can be used to accommodate gluten sensitivities and lactose intolerance.

Serving Suggestions For Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole

Serving Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti can be as delightful as cooking it. Here are some tips to enhance your dining experience:

Side Dishes: Complement the rich flavors of the spaghetti with a light, crisp garden salad or some steamed vegetables. For an added touch of indulgence, serve with garlic bread or garlic cheese toast, enhancing the comfort food experience.
Drinks: Pair this dish with a glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, which balances the richness of the cheese and beef. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon can refresh the palate.
Presentation: Serve the spaghetti in a beautiful, large ceramic dish that goes straight from oven to table for that wonderful, homey vibe. Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only adds color but also a burst of fresh flavor.

Presentation is key in turning everyday meals into special occasions. For more inspiration on creating memorable family meals, check out this Pinterest board on family meals.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti often include practical concerns about preparation and storage. Here are some common queries:

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the layers a day in advance and refrigerate. Simply bake it when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.

How can I make this dish healthier? Consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber, low-fat cream cheese, and part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat intake. Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can also boost the nutritional value.
What are the best ways to store and reheat leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results, or quickly in the microwave if you’re short on time. For more tips on storing and reheating pasta dishes, refer to this guide on storing pasta.