Indulge in the delectable symphony of flavors in our baked spaghetti recipe with cream cheese. This comforting dish, boasting a rich and creamy sauce, will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey as we guide you through each step, ensuring you create a masterpiece that will impress family and friends alike.
Introduction
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is a delectable dish that combines the hearty goodness of spaghetti with the velvety richness of cream cheese. This unique combination elevates the classic spaghetti recipe, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent.
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is a delicious and easy dish to make. The creamy cheese sauce is a perfect complement to the tender spaghetti. If you’re looking for a refreshing drink to pair with your meal, try a shark bite drink . This tropical-inspired beverage is made with blue curacao, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.
It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. After you’ve enjoyed your shark bite drink, be sure to finish your baked spaghetti with cream cheese. It’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
The incorporation of cream cheese into the recipe brings forth several benefits. Firstly, it adds a creamy and luscious texture to the dish, enhancing the overall mouthfeel. Secondly, cream cheese provides a subtle tanginess that complements the savory flavors of the spaghetti and sauce.
Lastly, it helps to thicken the sauce, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
To prepare this delectable dish, you will require the following ingredients:
- Spaghetti noodles
- Cream cheese
- Spaghetti sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Seasonings (e.g., salt, pepper, oregano)
Ingredients
To craft this delectable baked spaghetti with cream cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
The measurements provided are precise to ensure a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
Pasta
- 1 pound spaghetti noodles
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Sauce
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Step-by-Step s
Follow these detailed steps to prepare a delicious baked spaghetti with cream cheese:
Preheat the oven
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Cook the spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions.
- Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Make the cheese sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
Combine the ingredients, Baked spaghetti recipe with cream cheese
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cheese sauce, and cooked ground beef.
- Stir until well combined.
Bake the spaghetti
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with the mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Baking Techniques
Baking the spaghetti is a crucial step in achieving a delicious and well-cooked dish. Here are some essential techniques to follow:
Preheating the Oven:Preheating the oven ensures that it reaches the desired temperature before placing the spaghetti dish inside. This helps to create an even cooking environment and prevents the spaghetti from becoming soggy.
Optimal Temperature and Duration
The ideal baking temperature for spaghetti with cream cheese is 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the spaghetti to cook thoroughly while preventing it from overcooking or burning.
The baking duration will vary depending on the size of the baking dish and the amount of spaghetti used. As a general guideline, bake the spaghetti for 25-30 minutes, or until it is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Use of a Baking Dish
Choose a baking dish that is large enough to accommodate the spaghetti without overcrowding. A 9×13-inch baking dish is a good option for most recipes.
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Baked Spaghetti
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first 15-20 minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
- Uncover the dish and continue baking for the remaining time to allow the cheese to brown and create a crispy crust.
- Let the spaghetti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to set.
Variations and Enhancements: Baked Spaghetti Recipe With Cream Cheese
The classic baked spaghetti recipe is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas for variations and enhancements to elevate the flavor and presentation:
Vegetables
Incorporate vegetables such as chopped bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or zucchini into the sauce to add texture and nutrition.
Cheese
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan, to create a unique flavor profile.
Herbs and Spices
Enhance the flavor with herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme. Add a pinch of chili flakes or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Presentation
To make your baked spaghetti more visually appealing, consider topping it with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or toasted bread crumbs before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. It pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, such as:
- Salads: A fresh green salad or a Caesar salad is a light and refreshing complement to the rich flavors of the baked spaghetti.
- Garlic bread: The classic combination of garlic bread and spaghetti is always a winner. The bread can be used to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini, add a healthy and colorful side to the meal.
- Meatballs: Meatballs are a hearty and flavorful addition to baked spaghetti. They can be made from beef, pork, or turkey.
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is also a great dish to serve for special occasions. It’s perfect for a family gathering, a potluck, or a holiday dinner.
Garnishing and Decorating
Before serving, you can garnish the baked spaghetti with a variety of toppings to make it look more appealing. Some popular options include:
- Fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor to the spaghetti.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes add a bit of heat to the dish.
- Sliced almonds: Sliced almonds add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor to the spaghetti.
Nutritional Information
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it’s important to be aware of its nutritional content. One serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 450-500
- Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
While baked spaghetti is a good source of carbohydrates and protein, it is also high in calories and fat. The cream cheese adds richness and flavor to the dish, but it also contributes to the high fat content.Despite its high calorie and fat content, baked spaghetti can be part of a healthy diet if it is consumed in moderation.
The dish is a good source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health. It also contains some fiber, which can help to promote digestive health.
Health Benefits and Considerations
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is a tasty and satisfying dish, but it’s essential to consume it in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content. If you have concerns about your weight or health, speak to your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
Final Conclusion
As you savor the last bite of your baked spaghetti with cream cheese, let the flavors linger and create lasting memories. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a main course, a side dish, or even as a comforting snack.
Experiment with different variations and enhancements to make it your own unique creation.