Description

Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese is a comforting dish that combines rich flavors of marinara, tender pasta, and creamy cheese. This easy recipe makes for a delightful dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering dish, bringing joy to every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
2–3 teaspoons olive oil (for coating)
1 pound ground beef
1½ teaspoons italian seasoning blend
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
3 cups jarred marinara sauce
½ pound spaghetti noodles
8 ounces block style cream cheese, cubed, room temperature
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
8 ounces block whole-milk mozzarella cheese, shredded
Fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F and set a 9×13 baking dish aside after spraying it with non-stick oil spray.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, ground beef, ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-6 minutes, and then drain excess fat.
Add marinara sauce to the skilled with the beef, stir to combine, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes while boiling pasta.
Cook spaghetti noodles in salted boiling water for 9-11 minutes or until al dente, then drain.
In a bowl, combine drained pasta with cream cheese, remaining 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and garlic powder, stirring until smooth. If the pasta sticks, add olive oil for easier mixing.
Spread 1 cup of meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Layer the coated spaghetti noodles evenly and top with the remaining meat sauce.
Sprinkle shredded parmesan and mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
Let the dish rest at room temperature for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Notes

Adjust the amount of cream cheese according to taste for creamier spaghetti.
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
Adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance flavor and nutrition.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 533
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 102mg