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!
