Descrição

Imagine the creamy decadence of a cheesecake blended with the heartiness of a classic Italian pasta dish. That's precisely what you get with this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich, tangy flavor of cream cheese with the satisfying texture of al dente spaghetti, all baked to perfection with a layer of melted cheese on top. It's a dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the warmth and familiarity of pasta with the indulgent creaminess of a cheese-centric dish.

This recipe is perfect for those days when you crave something hearty yet simple to make. Whether you're feeding a family or indulging in some well-deserved me-time, this baked spaghetti dish will quickly become a favorite. The cream cheese not only adds a velvety texture but also enhances the flavor of the spaghetti sauce, creating a harmony of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredientes

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar of spaghetti sauce (24 oz)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Modo de Preparo

Cook the Spaghetti: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the jar of spaghetti sauce to the beef. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Dish: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti, followed by a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Add the remaining spaghetti on top, followed by the rest of the meat sauce. Finish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Dicas e Conclusão

Bonus Tip: Enhancing the Creaminess

To make this dish even creamier, consider adding a few tablespoons of heavy cream to the cream cheese mixture. This will not only increase the creaminess but also add a slight richness that pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the cream cheese. Additionally, if you prefer a more intense cheesy flavor, you can mix some shredded mozzarella or cheddar directly into the cream cheese mixture before layering it with the spaghetti.
Conclusion: A Dish to Savor

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it's an experience. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness with the comforting familiarity of spaghetti makes this dish a standout. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner, a potluck with friends, or even a special treat for yourself on a quiet night in. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it elevates everyday ingredients into something truly special.

Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for an easy yet impressive dish to try, this baked spaghetti will not disappoint. The flavors meld together beautifully in the oven, creating a dish that's warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying. So next time you're in the mood for comfort food, give this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti a try. It's sure to become a regular in your culinary rotation, bringing joy and comfort to your table with every bite.