Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the comfort of spaghetti, the richness of cream cheese, and the satisfaction of a perfectly baked meal. Look no further than the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, a recipe that elevates everyday ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. This dish is not only incredibly delicious, with its balance of creamy sauce, tender spaghetti, and a blend of cheeses, but it’s also surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe promises to impress with its simplicity and flavor. The best part? It’s made with ingredients you likely have on hand, making it a creative solution for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that complements the spaghetti perfectly. Plus, these ingredients are easily found in most grocery stores.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive outcome, this recipe requires minimal effort. The steps are straightforward, and the baking process allows for a hands-off approach, making it perfect for busy days.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The presentation of the baked spaghetti, with its golden-brown top layer of cheese and the aroma that fills the kitchen, is sure to impress family and friends. It’s a dish that looks and tastes like it requires much more time and effort than it actually does.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Then, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it with the garlic and oil to combine.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Add the spaghetti to the cheese mixture and mix until the spaghetti is well coated.
4. Step 4: Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a baking dish. If desired, top with additional mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Handy Tips

• For an extra creamy sauce, consider adding 1/4 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the cheese mixture before baking.
• To prevent the spaghetti from becoming too dry, ensure it’s not overcooked before mixing it with the cheese sauce.
• Customize the recipe by adding your favorite proteins (e.g., cooked chicken, bacon) or vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, spinach) to the cheese mixture before baking.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the spaghetti is 375°F (190°C), and the dish should be baked for 20-25 minutes. It’s done when the top layer of cheese is golden brown, and the sauce is heated through. To ensure the spaghetti doesn’t overcook, check on it after 20 minutes and adjust the baking time as needed.

Crunch Factor

This dish is best when the top layer of cheese is crispy and golden, providing a nice contrast to the tender spaghetti. To achieve this, make sure the oven is at the correct temperature, and don’t cover the baking dish with foil during baking. If you prefer a crunchier top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan, for example, will give a better taste than pre-grated cheese.
• To make the dish more substantial, consider adding some sautéed vegetables (like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini) or cooked meats (like ground beef or sausage) to the spaghetti before baking.
• For easier cleanup, line the baking dish with parchment paper before adding the spaghetti mixture. This will prevent the cheese from sticking to the dish.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to the spaghetti if it seems dry, to help retain moisture.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this dish is best served fresh, if you’re looking to gift a similar product, consider making individual portions of baked spaghetti in ramekins or small baking dishes. These can be cooled, wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and placed in a gift basket with some crusty bread or a side salad recipe. Add a personal touch with a handwritten recipe card or a packet of homemade garlic bread seasoning.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or use Italian seasoning for an herby flavor.
• Creative toppings: Before baking, top the spaghetti with additional ingredients like diced tomatoes, sliced olives, or artichoke hearts for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Use gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free option, or substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the spaghetti becomes too dry, it may have been overcooked before baking. Try adding more cheese sauce or a bit of cream to moisten it. If the top doesn’t brown as expected, check the oven temperature or try broiling for a few minutes.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have cream cheese, you can make a substitute by mixing softened butter with grated Parmesan cheese and a bit of flour to thicken. For mozzarella, other melting cheeses like cheddar or provolone can be used, though they’ll change the flavor profile slightly.
• Over/undercooking signs: The spaghetti should be al dente before baking. If it’s overcooked, it will be mushy. The baked dish is done when the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. If it’s undercooked, the cheese won’t be fully melted, and the dish might lack flavor.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the baked spaghetti can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe as written is not gluten-free due to the spaghetti. However, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free spaghetti.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be doubled or tripled as needed. Just ensure you have a large enough baking dish to accommodate the increased volume.

Conclusion

The Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a recipe that embodies comfort food at its finest. It’s a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate, perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even a cozy night in. With its ease of preparation, accessibility of ingredients, and the impressive results it yields, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to make it your own, and enjoy the process of creating something truly delicious from scratch.