Here’s a detailed, unique article about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti with a step-by-step method:
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe: A Comfort Food Delight
If you love the creamy, cheesy goodness of pasta but want something a little more indulgent than a simple stovetop spaghetti, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the answer. This dish combines tender spaghetti noodles with a rich cream cheese sauce, flavorful seasonings, and a golden baked topping that’s crispy and irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Cream Cheese Sauce:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, to mix with breadcrumbs)
Optional Add-ins:
- Cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon bits
- Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Drain the spaghetti and toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the cream cheese. Stir continuously until it starts to soften.
- Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to combine with the cream cheese into a smooth sauce.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese.
- Continue to stir for 3–5 minutes until the sauce is creamy, smooth, and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Place the cooked spaghetti in a large mixing bowl or directly into a greased baking dish.
- Pour the prepared cream cheese sauce over the spaghetti.
- Gently toss to coat all the noodles evenly with the sauce.
4. Add Toppings
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti.
- If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for a golden, crispy topping.
No Responses Yet