Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a rich and comforting dish that combines the creamy goodness of cream cheese with the heartiness of baked spaghetti. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for it:
Ingredients
- For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Dish:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce. Mix well.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti layer.
- Top with the remaining spaghetti mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is perfect for a hearty family meal or a comforting dish to share with friends. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!