There’s something irresistibly comforting about a steaming, bubbly casserole fresh from the oven, especially when it involves spaghetti enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a dish; it’s a hug in a baking dish, promising to soothe your soul and delight your taste buds.
Perfect for any gathering, this casserole is a surefire hit that will have everyone clamoring for the recipe. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the magical fusion of flavors that seem to dance in harmony. It’s not just pasta; it’s an experience that transcends the ordinary, making it a standout dish that’s even more tantalizing than what you’d find in a high-end restaurant.
Equipment:
- 10-inch Skillet: For perfectly browning your ground beef to add that rich, meaty layer to your casserole.
- Meat Masher Tool: A handy gadget to ensure your beef is evenly cooked and crumbled.
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients to create that creamy, dreamy spaghetti mix.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The ideal vessel for baking your masterpiece to golden, bubbly perfection.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti: The base of your casserole, ready to soak up all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- 1 (26-oz) jar prepared spaghetti sauce: A convenient and flavorful way to add depth to your dish.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Adds a hearty, meaty layer that complements the creamy pasta.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of this brings a burst of Italian flair to every bite.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: A hint of garlic to add that aromatic punch that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, room temperature: The secret ingredient that transforms this dish into a creamy delight.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that elevates the whole dish.
Instructions:
- Preheat: Start by setting your oven to 350ºF, creating the perfect warm environment for your casserole to bake.
- Brown the Beef: In your skillet, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, then mix in your spaghetti sauce and let the flavors meld.
- Spaghetti Prep: Boil your spaghetti just right, then mix it with the cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic for that creamy, dreamy base.
- Layer Up: In your greased baking dish, lay down a foundation of meat sauce, pile on your spaghetti mix, then top it off with the rest of the meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Bake: Let your casserole bake for about 30 minutes or until it’s bubbling with joy and the cheese is golden and inviting.
Notes:
- Make Ahead: Feel free to prepare this casserole in advance. Simply refrigerate or freeze, then bake when you’re ready for a hassle-free meal.
- Baking Tips: If it’s straight from the fridge, it might need a tad longer in the oven. And if you’ve frozen it, ensure it’s thawed before baking to perfection.
- Reheating: If you’re warming up leftovers, cover with foil and heat until it’s just as delicious as the first time.
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a moment of comfort, a celebration on a plate, ready to make any occasion special with its cheesy, creamy goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for that perfect dish to make your weeknight dinner feel like a feast, this casserole is sure to be the best pasta you’ve ever had.