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Baked Creme Cheese Spaghetti

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: A Cheesy Comfort Food Classic

Baked Creme Cheese Spaghetti

Elevate your classic spaghetti dinner with this indulgent baked cream cheese spaghetti recipe. This comforting dish features a rich and creamy sauce made with ground beef, tangy spaghetti sauce, and velvety cream cheese. Topped with a golden layer of melted mozzarella, it's a family-friendly meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of flavors and textures creates a truly satisfying experience that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 (28 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Prepare the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Create the creamy sauce: Stir in the spaghetti sauce, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt into the browned beef. Bring to a simmer and cook until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce is well combined.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy meat sauce.
  5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips

  • Enhance the flavor: For added depth of flavor, sauté chopped onions and green bell peppers in the skillet before browning the ground beef.
  • Pasta variations: Experiment with different pasta shapes, such as penne or rigatoni, to change the texture of your dish.
  • Extra cheesy: Add a layer of ricotta cheese beneath the mozzarella for an even richer and creamier experience.
  • Make it ahead: Prepare the meat sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. This can save time on busy weeknights.
  • Leftovers: Store leftover baked spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through.

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