Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole 🍝🧀✨
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This rich and creamy casserole combines tender spaghetti noodles, luscious cream cheese, and savory marinara sauce, all baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly cheese topping. The fusion of flavors and textures makes this dish a standout, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Crafting this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is straightforward and rewarding. The recipe begins with cooking the spaghetti until al dente, then tossing it with a mixture of softened cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan for a creamy base. Next, the spaghetti is layered with a robust marinara sauce and ground beef, creating a deliciously rich filling. Finally, it’s all topped with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese and baked until the cheese is melted and golden brown. This dish not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with an inviting aroma that will have everyone eager to dig in.
Versatility is another hallmark of our Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, allowing you to customize the recipe to suit your preferences. Add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra nutrition and flavor. For a spicier kick, incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of ground beef. This casserole can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
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Ingredients 🛒
- Spaghetti: 12 oz, $1.50
- Ground beef: 1 lb, $5.00
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened, $2.00
- Sour cream: 1 cup, $1.00
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated, $2.50
- Marinara sauce: 24 oz, $3.00
- Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded, $4.00
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp, $0.25
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions 📝
- Preheat the oven: to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti: according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Combine the cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: In a large baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Top with half of the marinara sauce and half of the cooked ground beef. Repeat layers.
- Top with mozzarella: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information 🍽️
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not only delicious but also provides a hearty meal with balanced macronutrients. Each serving is approximately 450 calories, with 25g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, and 20g of fat. It’s a good source of calcium and provides a satisfying mix of fats and proteins to keep you full and energized. For those monitoring their intake, consider pairing it with a fresh salad to add more fiber and nutrients to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
- Can I use a different type of meat?
- Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to three months.
- Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
- Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to increase the nutritional value.
- Is there a vegetarian option?
- Yes, you can omit the meat and add more vegetables or use a meat substitute to make it vegetarian.
