Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound spaghetti; 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

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Introduction

Welcome to our delicious recipe for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! This comforting and flavorful dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of creamy cream cheese, savory spaghetti, and gooey melted cheese makes this casserole a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a fan of pasta dishes or looking for a new go-to recipe, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Throughout this article, we will guide you through the ingredients you’ll need, the steps to prepare this mouthwatering casserole, variations to customize the recipe to your liking, helpful tips for success, and finally, some frequently asked questions to address any queries you may have.

So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the world of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole!

Before we proceed, make sure your kitchen is stocked with the necessary ingredients to whip up this delectable dish.

Ingredients

To create this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of spaghetti

• 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup of sour cream

• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon of onion powder

• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

• 1 (24-ounce) jar of marinara sauce

• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

These simple yet flavorful ingredients will come together to create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Steps

Now that you have gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to prepare and bake your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Mix until well combined.

4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss to coat the spaghetti evenly.

5. Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the spaghetti mixture.

6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the spaghetti and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top.

7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Variations

There are endless ways to customize this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole to suit your taste preferences:

• Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage for a meaty twist.

• Incorporate your favorite vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

• Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or fontina.

• Swap the marinara sauce for a homemade tomato sauce or Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.

Feel free to get creative in the kitchen and make this recipe your own!

Tips

For the best results when making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, consider the following tips:

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.

• Season the dish with additional herbs and spices like basil, parsley, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to serving a perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole every time!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and flavorful ingredients, this casserole is a must-try for any pasta lover.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a potluck with friends, this recipe is a reliable go-to option that will leave everyone asking for more. So, next time you’re in the mood for a hearty and delicious meal, consider making this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole for a memorable dining experience.

We hope you enjoy cooking and savoring this delightful casserole as much as we do!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

A: While spaghetti works best for this casserole, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?

A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

A: Absolutely! You can freeze any leftover portions of the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Yes, you can omit the meat and add more vegetables or plant-based protein alternatives to make a delicious vegetarian version of this casserole.

We hope these FAQs have addressed any queries you may have about preparing and serving Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Enjoy your cooking adventure!