Irresistible Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty, creamy Southern spaghetti bake. Imagine the aroma of bubbling cheese and rich tomato sauce wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish is a warm hug in the form of pasta, perfect for any occasion.

Picture this: a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, where laughter fills the air, and every spoonful of creamy Southern spaghetti bake elicits smiles and satisfied sighs. It’s the meal that brings people together and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

My first encounter with creamy Southern spaghetti bake was during a family reunion where my Aunt June insisted I try her secret recipe. After one bite, I declared my love for it loudly enough that I think I startled my great-uncle Bob.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: Opt for whole wheat or regular; both will work wonderfully in this creamy bake.

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

• Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought sauce saves time but feel free to make your own!

• Cream Cheese: This adds that signature creaminess; let it soften before mixing.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: You can’t go wrong with gooey mozzarella; it’s essential for that cheesy topping.

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for an added layer of flavor; it elevates the dish.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances every bite; use fresh herbs if you have them on hand.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go to get it just right!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Ensure no pink remains before draining excess fat.

Create the Sauce: Stir marinara sauce into the cooked beef along with Italian seasoning. Let simmer for about five minutes so flavors meld together beautifully.

Add Creaminess: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese and mix until smooth. This is where magic happens!

Layer Your Bake: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti followed by half of the meat sauce and then half of the creamy mixture. Repeat these layers once more.

Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top before baking uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

And there you have it—a delightful creamy Southern spaghetti bake sure to impress even your toughest critics at home! Enjoy every cheesy bite while reminiscing about family gatherings filled with laughter and love!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta al dente while preparing the sauce. Mix everything together before layering for optimal flavor blending.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients; try Italian sausage instead of ground beef or add spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through, preserving that melty cheese goodness.

The first time I made this creamy Southern spaghetti bake, my friends devoured it so quickly that I barely got a bite! Their enthusiastic feedback convinced me I’d stumbled upon something special.

FAQ

What can I substitute for meat in this recipe?

You can use mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it beforehand and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

How do I know when the spaghetti bake is done?

Look for bubbly edges and a golden crust on top as signs of doneness.

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Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Creamy Southern spaghetti bake is the ultimate comfort food that combines buttery noodles, zesty marinara sauce, and gooey cheese into one delicious dish. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. With its inviting aroma and visually appealing layers, it’s a meal designed to bring everyone together. Easy to prepare, this spaghetti bake is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain excess fat.
3. Stir marinara sauce and Italian seasoning into cooked beef; simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with half of the mozzarella until smooth.
5. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti, half of the meat sauce, and half of the creamy mixture. Repeat layers.
6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C); top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg