Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
History:
Spaghetti is a beloved Italian dish, often associated with traditional pasta recipes like spaghetti bolognese or carbonara. The addition of cream cheese in baked spaghetti is a modern twist, infusing the dish with an extra layer of creaminess and richness. This variation likely emerged as a fusion between classic American casseroles and Italian pasta dishes, combining the convenience of baking with the comfort of creamy pasta.
Benefits:
- Protein & Calcium: The cream cheese and mozzarella provide a good source of protein and calcium.
- Comfort Food: This dish is hearty and filling, perfect for feeding a family or serving at gatherings.
- Customizable: You can easily add vegetables or different types of meat to suit your preferences.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and bake when needed, making it convenient for busy days.
Recipe: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz (680 g) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or oil. - Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer on low heat while you prepare the cream cheese mixture.
- Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and mix well.
- Assemble the Dish:
- In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom.
- Add the cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti.
- Pour the remaining meat sauce over the cream cheese layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Methods & Tips:
- Variations: You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition. For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
This dish is not only satisfying but also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.