Velvety Baked Spaghetti: A Heavenly Casserole Creation

Velvety Baked Spaghetti: A Heavenly Casserole Creation 🍝✨🥄

1. Introduction

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This creamy, cheesy dish combines the tender goodness of perfectly cooked spaghetti with luscious cream cheese and savory ingredients, baked to perfection for a comforting family dinner or special occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is simple to make and endlessly delicious. Dive into this velvety baked spaghetti that will leave everyone craving more!

2. Ingredients Needed for This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti noodles
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• 2 cups cooked chicken or Italian sausage (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Prepare the Pasta

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

Sauté Aromatics and Protein

In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent. If adding cooked chicken or sausage, stir in now and cook until heated through.

Make the Velvety Sauce

Reduce the heat to low. Add softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth. Slowly pour in the milk or heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a velvety, rich sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Mix in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes so the flavors meld.

Bake for a Heavenly Finish

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with additional mozzarella or Parmesan cheese if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

4. How to Store and Reheat Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in individual portions or bake in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

5. Serving Suggestions for This Velvety Spaghetti Dish

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. Garnish with chopped parsley for added color and flavor. For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with olive oil before serving.

6. FAQ: Your Questions About This Spaghetti Casserole Answered

Can I substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier flavor and lighter option. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the creaminess.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make this gluten-free, substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

How long does it take to prepare and bake?

The total preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with an additional 20-25 minutes baking time.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if cold.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – The perfect cookware set makes preparing cheesy sauces and boiling pasta effortless, ensuring even heat.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Streamlines chopping garlic, onions, and herbs for a quick prep experience.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Cool beverages or leftover sauce quickly with this versatile drink maker.
• Cuisinart Compact Automatic Bread Maker – Perfect for baking fresh garlic bread to serve alongside your casserole.

8. Additional Tips to Make This Recipe Even Better

• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for a quick protein boost.
• Top with crispy bacon bits before baking for a savory crunch.

9. Conclusion

Enjoy creating this irresistible Velvety Baked Spaghetti, a creamy and cheesy masterpiece that the whole family will adore. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish transforms ordinary pasta into a luxurious casserole perfect for any occasion. Try it today and indulge in a comforting, velvety experience that will become a family favorite! For more delicious pasta ideas, visit our pasta recipes collection.

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