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Introduction:
If you're in search of a comforting and indulgent dinner that combines the richness of cream cheese, the heartiness of spaghetti, and a golden, cheesy topping, then this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the dish for you. Perfect for weeknight meals or serving to a crowd, this casserole brings together classic Italian flavors with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth twist. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of spice)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef (or turkey), breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Mix the cheeses: In a separate bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
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