Creamy Dreamy Baked Spaghetti: A Recipe That Will Blow You Away
Are you tired of the same old spaghetti recipe? Craving something richer, creamier, and utterly irresistible? Then get ready to be amazed by this baked spaghetti recipe featuring the magic ingredient: cream cheese! This dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Let's dive into this cheesy, comforting, and utterly delicious baked spaghetti recipe!
Why This Baked Spaghetti Recipe is a Game Changer
This recipe stands out from the crowd thanks to the addition of cream cheese. The cream cheese creates a luxuriously smooth and creamy sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti perfectly. It adds a depth of richness that you won't find in your average spaghetti dish. Forget watery tomato sauces; this recipe is all about creamy, cheesy perfection!
We’ve also focused on optimizing this recipe for maximum flavor and ease of preparation. We'll walk you through each step, ensuring a flawless and delicious outcome every time.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes a generous serving for 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- For the Spaghetti:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 (16 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce (your favorite brand!)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
While the spaghetti is cooking, prepare the creamy sauce. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the heavy cream, mixing until well combined. Stir in the marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the creamy sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the baked spaghetti rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this incredibly delicious and comforting meal!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Meat Lovers Delight: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or meatballs to the sauce for a heartier meal.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to the sauce.
- Different Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as ricotta, provolone, or a blend of your favorites.
This baked spaghetti recipe with cream cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its creamy texture, rich flavor, and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness! Enjoy!
