Irresistible Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Packed with fresh flavors
• Customizable ingredients
• Perfect for healthy meals

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that combines comfort and indulgence in every bite? If not, let me introduce you to the Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This delightful casserole brings together creamy textures with the heartiness of pasta, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The rich aroma of melted cheese and savory spices fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table.

This recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. Picture yourself serving this golden wonder, where each forkful offers a perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. With its cheesy top layer bubbling away, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Key Ingredients For Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: Choose high-quality spaghetti for the best texture; cook it al dente for optimal results.

• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy base; soften it to mix easily.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This adds gooeyness and flavor; opt for freshly shredded cheese for better melting.

• Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Either meat option provides great flavor; cook until browned before adding to the casserole.

• Onion and Garlic: Sautéed onion and garlic add depth; use fresh ingredients for enhanced taste.

• Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara sauce ties everything together; choose one with robust flavors.

For the Seasoning:

• Dried Oregano: This herb adds an aromatic touch; use it generously for authentic Italian flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Boil salted water in a pot and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.

Second Step: Cook the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef or Italian sausage, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan.

Third Step: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, cooked meat mixture, softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, and oregano. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Fourth Step: Layer the Casserole

Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top before adding the remaining spaghetti mixture over it. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.

Fifth Step: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Serving Suggestion: Allow cooling slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for an extra burst of flavor.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta slightly underdone ensures it holds its texture during baking.

• Mix Thoroughly: Make sure all ingredients are well combined for even flavor distribution throughout the casserole.

• Add Veggies: Feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

With these steps and tips at hand, you are well on your way to creating a memorable Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that everyone will love!

Cooking Time and Temperature

The perfect Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole requires careful attention to cooking times and temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 30 to 40 minutes. The goal is to achieve a golden, bubbly top while ensuring the pasta is cooked through. If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole can be served in various ways. Consider these serving suggestions:

• Fresh Salad: A light garden salad adds refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a hearty meal.
• Steamed Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli or green beans for extra nutrition.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole offers a balance of flavors and nutrients. It typically contains around 400 calories per serving, with protein from cream cheese and spaghetti. The dish also provides carbohydrates from pasta and healthy fats from cheese. Adjust portion sizes according to dietary needs for a balanced meal.

Storage Tips

To maintain the quality of your Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly after cooling on the counter. The casserole can last up to three days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. When reheating, ensure that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

FAQs

What are some variations of Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

You can customize your Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole by adding different ingredients. Try incorporating cooked ground beef or turkey for added protein. Alternatively, mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for unique tastes.

Can I make Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time is convenient and easy. Assemble all ingredients in the baking dish without baking it right away. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and follow the original baking instructions.

Is Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze your Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! To do this, let it cool completely after baking, then slice into portions. Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag. It can stay frozen for up to three months; just reheat thoroughly before enjoying.

What side dishes pair well with Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Pairing side dishes with your Golden Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole enhances its flavors beautifully. Consider serving it alongside a Caesar salad for a crunchy texture contrast or garlic bread for added indulgence. Grilled vegetables also work wonderfully, providing freshness while complementing the creamy richness of the casserole.