Preparing the Pasta:
- Cook Spaghetti:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions for al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce:
- Brown the Meat:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess grease.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Combine with Marinara:
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture:
- Mix Cheeses:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.
Assembling the Dish:
- Layer Ingredients:
- Spread a small amount of the meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Toss the drained spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until well coated.
- Place the spaghetti in the baking dish. Top with the remaining meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is completely covered.
- Add Mozzarella Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
Baking:
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serving:
- Serve Hot:
- Let the baked spaghetti sit for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Pasta Tips: Avoid overcooking the spaghetti since it will cook further in the oven.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the mix, such as ricotta or a blend of Italian cheeses for added flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake just before serving, adding a few minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful twist on traditional baked pasta dishes, offering a creamy, cheesy alternative that is sure to be a hit at any family dinner or gathering. Enjoy the creamy textures and comforting flavors!