Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Introduction
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort meal that blends creamy, cheesy goodness with savory marinara sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti. This dish is ideal for any weekday dinner, offering a hearty and satisfying experience for the whole family.
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
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.
History
This baked spaghetti dish is inspired by the classic Italian-American pasta casseroles that have been beloved for decades. Combining flavors of traditional spaghetti with the creamy richness of cream cheese, this dish reflects culinary innovation while honoring traditional roots.
Benefits
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and dairy. It’s a great way to enjoy a fulfilling meal with minimal effort while catering to various palates.
Formation
This dish forms beautifully in layers, starting with a base of spaghetti, followed by a creamy layer, a flavorful meat sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. The layers meld together during baking to create a cohesive and irresistible casserole.
Nutrition
Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 18g
- Calcium: 15% of the daily recommended intake
Lovers
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is adored by pasta lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike. It’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties, offering a comforting and satisfying experience for everyone.
Conclusion
Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a must-try recipe. It’s simple to make, yet sophisticated enough to impress your guests. Perfect for all occasions, this dish promises to become a family favorite!