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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind, especially for busy moms and professionals juggling work, family, and everything in between. You may find yourself racing against the clock to prepare dinner while your kids are asking for homework help or your inbox is piling up. If you’re seeking a solution that offers deliciousness without compromising your precious time, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. With a creamy texture and hearty flavors, it’s the perfect make-ahead meal that even finicky eaters will love!
What Makes This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole a Must-Try
This recipe is a standout because it seamlessly combines simplicity and flavor, helping you whip up a satisfying dinner without any stress. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also features a unique blend of Italian-inspired ingredients that play wonderfully together. The cream cheese adds richness, a touch of tanginess, and creamy comfort to the dish. Paired with perfectly cooked spaghetti and zesty tomato sauce, it creates a delightful balance of flavors that will leave your family raving! Plus, it’s infinitely customizable; feel free to add in cooked vegetables or proteins to enhance the dish further. On those busy evenings when time is of the essence, this casserole serves as a wholesome and cozy meal that everyone can enjoy.
Practical Tips / Cooking Tips
- Pre-cook your spaghetti: To save time, cook your spaghetti a day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This way, dinner prep becomes even quicker!
- Swap out the cheese: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese, consider substituting it with ricotta for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Add extra veggies: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to up the nutrition and add more texture to your casserole.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just pop it into the oven when you’re ready for dinner!
- Adjust the spice: If your family enjoys a kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Nutritional Value / Health Benefits
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients! Below is a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fats | 17g |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Fiber | 3g |
The ingredients in this recipe not only provide great flavor but also offer essential nutrients. The protein from the cheese and pasta supports muscle health, while the fiber keeps you feeling full and satisfied. Furthermore, incorporating vegetables can enhance heart health and boost overall wellness. This dish truly embodies a delicious and nutritionally balanced meal option!
Recipe Overview
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a wonderful blend of comfort and convenience. It combines the nostalgic flavors of spaghetti with a luxurious creaminess that your family will ask for time and time again. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend dinner, and the leftovers make an excellent lunch or quick meal for the next day. With its cheesy goodness and robust flavor profile, it’s a feel-good dish that nourishes both the body and soul. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely whet everyone’s appetite!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 8 oz | Any pasta of your choice |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz | Ricotta or cottage cheese |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 oz) | Homemade sauce or marinara |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups | Cheddar or provolone cheese |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Grated nutritional yeast (dairy-free option) |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Oregano or thyme |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | N/A |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add spaghetti: Gently fold the cooked spaghetti into the sauce mixture until completely coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and then add the remaining spaghetti on top. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before cutting. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy pasta delight!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitution and adds extra nutrition to the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Assemble it, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake it from frozen or thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
This casserole is already vegetarian! Just make sure to use cheese without rennet if you’re looking for a vegetarian cheese option.
What can I use instead of cream cheese if I’m avoiding dairy?
Consider using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or pureed silken tofu for a similar texture without the dairy!
Conclusion
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is truly a game-changer for busy families and health-conscious individuals. Not only does it offer an easy approach to meal preparation, but it also brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. With its versatility and delectable flavors, it’s the kind of dish that you can feel good about serving your loved ones. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and personalize it according to your family’s taste preferences. Don’t forget to share your version or check out more easy recipes on our site—happy cooking!
Savory Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Delight
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in this savory baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole A delightful recipe that combines creamy goodness with hearty pasta Perfect for dinner
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 calories
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
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