There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming, bubbly casserole straight from the oven, especially when it features spaghetti nestled in a luscious, creamy sauce.
The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole isn’t merely a meal; it’s like a warm embrace in a dish, ready to comfort your soul and tantalize your taste buds.
Ideal for any gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, leaving everyone eager to snag the recipe. Its charm lies in its simplicity and the enchanting blend of flavors that meld together so beautifully.
This isn’t just pasta; it’s an extraordinary experience that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary, making it a true standout that rivals even the finest restaurant fare.
Equipment:
- 10-inch Skillet: Perfect for browning your ground beef, giving it a rich, savory layer that’s essential for your casserole.
- Meat Masher Tool: An essential gadget to break down your beef evenly for consistent cooking.
- Mixing Bowls: Necessary for blending your ingredients to achieve a smooth, creamy spaghetti mixture.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The ideal dish for baking your casserole to a golden, bubbly perfection.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz Spaghetti: The main component of your casserole, ready to absorb all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
- 1 (26-oz) Jar Prepared Spaghetti Sauce: Adds convenience and a depth of flavor to your dish.
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef: Provides a hearty, meaty layer that complements the creamy pasta.
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: Adds a burst of Italian flavor to every bite.
- 1 Clove Garlic, Minced: Infuses the dish with an aromatic punch that ties the flavors together.
- 1 (8-oz) Package Cream Cheese, Room Temperature: The secret ingredient that makes the casserole extra creamy.
- ½ Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that enhances the overall flavor.
Instructions:
- Preheat: Begin by setting your oven to 350ºF to create the perfect baking environment for your casserole.
- Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef in your skillet until fully browned. Mix in the spaghetti sauce and let the flavors combine.
- Spaghetti Prep: Cook your spaghetti until al dente. Combine it with cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic to create a creamy base.
- Layer Up: In your greased baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, add your spaghetti mixture, top with the remaining meat sauce, and finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cook for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is golden brown.
Notes:
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance, refrigerate or freeze it, and bake when needed for a convenient meal.
- Baking Tips: If baking from the fridge, you may need to extend the cooking time slightly. For frozen casseroles, ensure they are thawed before baking.
- Reheating: To reheat leftovers, cover with foil and warm until the dish is as delicious as the first time.
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting delight and a celebration on a plate. Perfect for feeding a crowd or making weeknight dinners feel special, it’s sure to become your new favorite pasta dish.