Let me tell you about baked cream cheese spaghetti—it’s like a warm hug on a plate! This creamy, comforting dish takes the classic spaghetti experience to a whole new level by blending pasta with the richness of cream cheese and a delightful marinara sauce. I mean, who can resist a dish that’s ooey-gooey, cheesy, and just downright delicious? It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering. Trust me, once you dive into this cheesy goodness, you’ll want to make it a regular on your dinner table. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking this dreamy pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s gather everything you’ll need for this scrumptious baked cream cheese spaghetti! I promise, it’s super simple and you probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz spaghetti: Any type of spaghetti will do—regular, whole wheat, or even gluten-free if that’s your jam!
- 8 oz cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened, so it blends smoothly into the sauce. I like to take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before using it.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Go for the good stuff! It melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture we all love.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a lovely salty, nutty flavor to the dish. Freshly grated is often best, but the pre-grated stuff works too!
- 2 cups marinara sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade. Just make sure it’s a flavor you enjoy since it’s a star player in this recipe!
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is the way to go for that aromatic kick! You can adjust based on how garlicky you want it.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A lovely blend of herbs that brings everything together. Feel free to add a bit more if you’re a fan of Italian flavors!
- Salt and pepper to taste: You’ll want to season it just right. Start small, and adjust based on your preference.
That’s it! Simple ingredients that pack a flavor punch. Let’s get ready to mix them all together and create a dish that’ll make your taste buds dance!
How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Now, let’s get into the fun part—cooking! This baked cream cheese spaghetti comes together surprisingly fast, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can nail it every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when we’re ready to bake!
- Next, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. You want it slightly firm since it’ll continue cooking in the oven. Once it’s done, drain it and set it aside to cool for a few minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or mix until it’s smooth and creamy—this is where the magic happens!
- Now, gently fold in your cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce into the cream cheese mixture. Make sure every single noodle gets coated in that cheesy goodness—trust me, it’s worth it!
- Transfer the entire mixture into a baking dish. Don’t forget to spread it out evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese—oh, the cheesy bliss!
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be incredible, so get ready for some serious hunger pangs!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. This will help it set just a bit. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and melted mozzarella creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti—pure comfort food!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this cheesy delight, making it a go-to meal for the whole family.
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or proteins, like sautéed spinach or grilled chicken, to make it your own!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake—perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
- Leftover Heaven: This dish tastes even better the next day; just pop it in the oven for a quick reheat and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, let’s make sure your baked cream cheese spaghetti turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned from my own kitchen adventures:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember to cook your spaghetti just until al dente. It’ll finish cooking in the oven, and you don’t want it mushy!
- Softening Cream Cheese: For a super smooth blend, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, just microwave it for about 15-20 seconds—just don’t let it melt!
- Season Generously: Taste as you go! Seasoning is key, so don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. A little pinch can elevate the dish immensely.
- Add Some Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrients? Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even bell peppers to the mix. They’ll add great flavor and texture!
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Adding a sprinkle of cheddar or gouda on top can create a delightful flavor twist.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it firm up a bit, making it easier to scoop out those perfect servings.
- Reheat with Care: If you have leftovers, reheat them in the oven instead of the microwave for the best texture. Cover with foil to prevent drying out!
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating a meal that’s not just delicious but also a hit at your dinner table. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this incredible baked cream cheese spaghetti, and now you’ve got leftovers. No worries! Storing it properly ensures you can enjoy those cheesy goodness-filled bites later on!
First off, let your spaghetti cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your dish soggy. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Just remember to keep it sealed tight so it doesn’t absorb any funky fridge odors!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat baked cream cheese spaghetti is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil to keep it from drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s heated through and bubbly again. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave—just be sure to cover it to keep the moisture in and heat it in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s warmed evenly.
Trust me, with these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every last cheesy bite just like it was fresh out of the oven. Enjoy!
FAQ Section
Got questions about baked cream cheese spaghetti? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my answers to help you get the most out of this comforting dish:
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! This dish is super versatile. You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even bell peppers for an extra dose of flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them a bit before mixing them in!
How do I make it gluten-free?
No problem! Just swap out the regular spaghetti for a gluten-free pasta variety. There are plenty of options available that cook up nicely and taste great!
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, indeed! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment. Cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a fun twist. Just be mindful of how melting characteristics might change the texture!
Can I make this ahead of time?
You bet! Prep the dish up to the baking point, cover it well, and store it in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven to bake. It’s a great meal prep option!
How do I reheat leftovers?
For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just remember to cover it to keep it moist!
With these FAQs, you’re all set to dive into the delicious world of baked cream cheese spaghetti! If you have more questions, feel free to reach out—I love chatting about food!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Hey there! Just a quick note about the nutritional information for baked cream cheese spaghetti: please remember that the values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. While I’ve provided typical nutritional values to give you a ballpark idea, they aren’t set in stone. It’s always a good idea to check the labels of the products you’re using for the most accurate information. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and happy eating!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve whipped up this mouthwatering baked cream cheese spaghetti, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal truly unforgettable! Here are some ideas that pair beautifully with this cheesy delight:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with classic garlic bread! The buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for scooping up all that creamy sauce.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the spaghetti. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for a little extra indulgence!
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are fantastic choices. They add a pop of color and nutrients while balancing out the creaminess of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots with olive oil and spices, then roast them until tender. They make a delicious side that complements the flavors of the dish!
- Antipasto Platter: Create a fun antipasto platter with olives, cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables. It’s a great way to kick off your meal and offers a variety of flavors.
- Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a glass of wine with your meal, a light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the flavors beautifully.
Mix and match these sides to create your perfect dinner spread! Whatever you choose, your baked cream cheese spaghetti will shine as the star of the meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: 2 Ways to Comfort Your Soul
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked cream cheese spaghetti is a creamy, comforting dish that combines pasta and cheese for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: baked cream cheese spaghetti
