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Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti

Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti for Perfect Family Dinners

Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is a family-friendly dish that combines creamy pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese for delightful dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 530

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz spaghetti Substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit your needs.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb lean ground beef Can be swapped for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce Use homemade or marinara for more control over ingredients.
For the Creamy Layer
  • 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened Full-fat offers the best richness, whereas low-fat can lighten it up.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Substitute with garlic powder if needed.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Fresh herbs can elevate the taste even more.
  • a pinch garlic salt Regular salt is a good alternative; adjust to taste.
For the Topping
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano is a wonderful substitute for a stronger flavor.
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese Feel free to use a blend of Cheddar for a different spin.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and cooking equipment, including a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and return it to the pot.
  3. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in the spaghetti sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the hot spaghetti with cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until the cream cheese melts and combines smoothly.
  5. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the creamy spaghetti mixture and spread it evenly.
  6. Layer the remaining spaghetti on top followed by the rest of the meat sauce, ensuring even coverage.
  7. Sprinkle grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese generously over the surface.
  8. Bake the dish uncovered for about 30 minutes, looking for a bubbly, golden surface. Cover with foil if it over-browns.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 530kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook al dente spaghetti for the best texture and ensure cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. Season generously for balanced flavors.

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