Introduction:
Wander the cobblestone streets of a quaint Italian town without ever leaving your kitchen with our Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti, intertwined with velvety cream cheese and topped with rich marinara and molten mozzarella. This is not just a dish; it’s an adventure, a heartwarming embrace of Italian flavors and comforting textures that promises to be the star of any dinner table.
This casserole is the epitome of indulgence, marrying the best parts of classic spaghetti and baked pasta dishes. The secret lies in its middle layer, where cream cheese acts as the maestro, orchestrating a symphony of flavors. Topped with a hearty meat sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese, this dish achieves a balance of creaminess and savory depth. Whether it’s a weekday family dinner or a special gathering, this casserole guarantees a standing ovation.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp olive oil
Directions:
As your pot of salted water boils with anticipation, cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside, letting them dream of the creamy embrace that awaits.
In a large skillet, where stories of countless meals come to life, heat the olive oil. Introduce the ground beef or Italian sausage to the sizzling pan, breaking it apart and letting it brown with pride. As it turns a beautiful golden hue, welcome the onions and garlic, sautéing until they’re translucent and fragrant.
Pour in the marinara sauce, stirring well, ensuring every bit of meat is drenched in this rich, tomatoey goodness. Season with salt and pepper and let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
In a separate bowl, the cream cheese awaits its moment of glory. Stir in the fresh basil, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Now, it’s time for the grand assembly. In a greased baking dish, lay down half of the cooked spaghetti. Spread the creamy basil-infused cream cheese mixture over it, ensuring every strand is coated. Top this with the meat sauce, spreading it out evenly. Place the remaining spaghetti over the sauce, pressing down gently. Finish with a lavish sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese is golden and bubbly, filling your kitchen with aromas that beckon memories of Italian feasts.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves, and watch as faces light up with the first bite.
Tips or Notes:
- For an added layer of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- You can customize this dish by adding in veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought marinara but choose one with minimal additives and sugars.
- Pair the casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete, heartwarming meal.