Let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: baked cream cheese spaghetti! Seriously, this dish is like a warm hug on a plate. It combines creamy, dreamy cream cheese with tender pasta, all baked to perfection with bubbling cheese on top. I remember the first time I made this for my family; the kitchen was filled with the most heavenly aroma, and everyone just couldn’t wait to dig in. It was a chilly evening, and my kids were so excited to have something cheesy and delicious for dinner. I served it with garlic bread on the side, and let’s just say, there were no leftovers! Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll be your go-to for cozy nights in too!
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s gather everything you need for this scrumptious baked cream cheese spaghetti! Here’s a clear breakdown of the ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti: You can use any type of spaghetti you love—just make sure it’s cooked al dente for the best texture!
- 8 oz cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temperature. This makes it easier to mix and results in a creamy sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooier, the better! This will melt beautifully on top and give that irresistible cheesy pull.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a nice, nutty flavor. I love to sprinkle a bit extra on top before baking for that golden crust!
- 2 cups marinara sauce: You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous. Either way, it’s the heart of this dish!
- 1/2 cup chopped onions: These add sweetness and depth. You can use yellow, white, or even red onions, depending on your preference.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must! It brings a fragrant aroma and flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is for sautéing the onions and garlic. It adds richness and helps develop the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste as you go! A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing all those lovely flavors.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to dive into making this comforting pasta dish!
How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a cozy meal in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures your dish cooks evenly and the cheese gets that gorgeous bubbly goodness! Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Next, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the baking dish, so don’t overdo it! Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prep the other ingredients.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them together until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions turn translucent and the garlic releases that mouthwatering aroma. Mmm!
Step 4: Mix Ingredients
Now, in a large bowl, mix together the cooked spaghetti, softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, sautéed onions, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Make sure everything is evenly combined for that creamy, cheesy goodness throughout!
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Carefully transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish. Don’t forget to spread it out evenly! Top it off with the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese. This is where the magic happens—bring on the cheese!
Step 6: Baking Time
Pop your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’re looking for that bubbly, golden cheese on top. The anticipation will drive you wild, but it’s so worth it!
Step 7: Cooling Before Serving
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set a bit, making it easier to scoop out those hearty portions. Plus, it’s always nice to let those flavors meld together for just a moment longer!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s take a quick look at the nutritional profile of this comforting baked cream cheese spaghetti! Each serving (about 1 cup) gives you approximately 450 calories, with 24g of fat, including 12g of saturated fat. You’ll also get around 18g of protein and 45g of carbohydrates, making it a filling meal. Plus, it has 6g of sugar and 800mg of sodium. Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this delicious dish while keeping an eye on your nutritional needs!
Tips for Success
To make sure your baked cream cheese spaghetti turns out absolutely perfect, here are some tips I’ve picked up along the way! First, don’t skip the step of softening your cream cheese. If it’s cold, it won’t mix well and you’ll end up with lumps. If you forget to take it out ahead of time, just pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds—just be careful not to melt it!
Also, when cooking your spaghetti, remember to salt the water generously. It really helps season the pasta itself. And don’t overcook it; al dente is key since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Finally, feel free to get creative! Add in some sautéed veggies or cooked ground meat for extra flavor. Just make sure to adjust your baking time slightly if you add more ingredients. Trust me, these little tips will elevate your dish and make it even more delightful!
Variations of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
If you’re looking to mix things up with your baked cream cheese spaghetti, I’ve got some delicious ideas to inspire you! First off, try swapping out the mozzarella for smoked Gouda or fontina cheese for a unique flavor twist. If you’re a fan of a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick!
For a veggie-packed version, toss in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms—these not only add nutrition but also give a lovely color to the dish. If you want to make it heartier, consider adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or even Italian sausage. And for a fun twist, you could use rigatoni or penne instead of spaghetti. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your baked cream cheese spaghetti, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This way, it’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. I usually like to portion it out into smaller containers, making it easy to grab for a quick meal later on!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is all bubbly again. If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just be sure to cover them to keep the moisture in. Enjoy that comforting dish all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of cheese in this baked cream cheese spaghetti?
Absolutely! You can mix it up by using different cheeses like cheddar, Gouda, or even a sprinkle of feta for a tangy twist. Just remember to adjust the quantities to your taste!
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Can I freeze baked cream cheese spaghetti?
Definitely! This dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.
What can I serve with baked cream cheese spaghetti?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. You can also add a side of roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal!
How do I know when the baked spaghetti is done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. A little jiggle in the middle is okay; it will continue to set as it cools. Enjoy!
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: 7 Steps to Comforting Joy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti that combines creamy cheese with pasta for a comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked spaghetti, cream cheese, marinara sauce, sautéed onions, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of cheese to your liking.
- Add cooked vegetables or meat for extra flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: baked cream cheese spaghetti
