Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Creamy Sauce
A delectable dish that blends al dente pasta with a rich creamy sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz Spaghetti Cooked until al dente.
- 1 lb Ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or a meat alternative.
Sauces and Dairy
- 24 oz Marinara sauce For Italian flavor.
- 8 oz Cream cheese Contributes creaminess.
- 1/2 cup Sour cream Adds freshness.
Seasoning and Toppings
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning Enhances flavor.
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese For melting topping.
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese Adds flavor to the crust.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, cream cheese, sour cream, and Italian seasoning until well mixed and simmer for 3-5 minutes.
Combine and Bake
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce, ensuring every strand is coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding crushed red pepper or fresh herbs to the sauce. This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge.