Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

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Discover a delicious twist on pasta night with this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti! This easy recipe combines creamy cheese with perfectly cooked spaghetti for a comforting dish that's sure to please everyone. Ideal for busy weeknights, it offers a rich flavor and a satisfying texture with minimal prep. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for families and unexpected guests alike! Save this pin and try it today for a cheesy, delightful meal your loved ones will crave!

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Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let’s dive into one of my absolute favorite comfort foods: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. There’s just something incredibly satisfying about a cheesy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. I remember the first time I tried making this; the aroma wafting through the kitchen was enough to hook me instantly. My friends gathered around wondering what heavenly creation was baking in the oven, and I couldn’t help but beam with pride.

Now, this dish is not just delicious, but it’s also a breeze to make! With creamy cream cheese and zesty marinara sauce, it hits all the right notes. The best part? It’s a one-dish wonder, making clean-up as easy as pie – or should I say spaghetti? Let’s get cooking!

What’s in Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?

To make this delightful pasta dish, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that you might already have in your pantry:

Spaghetti: The star of our dish! I usually go for whole wheat spaghetti for that extra fiber, but regular works just as well. Cook it until al dente for the best texture.

Cream Cheese: This creamy delight gives our dish its signature richness. I often use Philadelphia cream cheese, as it melts beautifully.

Marinara Sauce: For that classic Italian flavor! Feel free to use your favorite store-bought kind, or if you’re feeling adventurous, whip up a homemade marinara sauce.

Seasonings: A touch of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or whatever spices make your taste buds sing!

Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, melty topping that makes everything better. Look for low-moisture mozzarella for that perfect golden brown crust.

Is Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Good for You?

While comfort food often gets a bad rap, this creamy dish can hold its own in the health department too!

Spaghetti: It’s a great source of carbohydrates and can keep your energy up, especially if you choose whole grain.

Cream Cheese: While indulgent, it also gives you some calcium; just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your fat intake.

Marinara Sauce: Packed with tomatoes, this adds a dose of vitamins and antioxidants to your meal. You get some veggies in there after all!

On the flip side, it’s a richer dish, so if you’re looking for something lighter, consider serving it with a fresh salad on the side.

Ingredients List

– Spaghetti (enough for 4 servings)
– 8 oz cream cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping if you love extra gooeyness!)

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?

1. **Cook the spaghetti:** Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. **Mix the cream cheese:** In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix it until it’s nice and creamy.

3. **Combine spaghetti and cream cheese mixture:** Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture. Stir vigorously until every strand of pasta is coated in that luscious sauce.

4. **Bake:** Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

5. **Serve and enjoy:** Take it out, let it cool for a few minutes, then dig in while it’s hot. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist a second helping!

Cheesy Tips and Tricks on Serving

– **Garnish:** Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top makes for a beautiful finish and a fresh flavor kick!

– **Add-ins:** Feel free to mix in some cooked ground beef or turkey, or even veggies like spinach or bell peppers to amp up the nutrition.

– **Leftovers:** If you find yourself with extra (which is rare!), it reheats wonderfully in the microwave – just cover it to keep it moist.

I can’t wait for you to try this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti! It’s cozy, comforting, and downright delicious. Give it a shot, and let me know how it turns out for you! Happy cooking, my friends!

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