Imagine a dish that combines the creamy goodness of cream cheese with the classic taste of spaghetti, all baked to perfection in the oven. Sounds like a match made in heaven, right? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, exploring its ingredients, preparation, and variations. But before we begin, let’s hear from Chef Emma, who shares her experience with this recipe:
“I was skeptical about adding cream cheese to spaghetti, but the result was nothing short of magic. The creamy sauce coated the pasta perfectly, and the baked cheese on top added a nice crunch. It’s now a staple in my kitchen!” – Chef Emma
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Introduction
What is Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a creative twist on the classic spaghetti dish. It’s made by combining cooked spaghetti with a creamy sauce made from cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, and then baking it in the oven until golden brown. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or potlucks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. Secondly, the creamy sauce and baked cheese on top add a rich and indulgent flavor to the dish. Lastly, it’s highly customizable – you can add your favorite proteins, vegetables, or spices to make it your own.
Nutrition Facts (serves 4) :
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 2g |
Ingredients and Quantities:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 pound |
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Garlic | 2 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
When it comes to making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, having the right ingredients and equipment is crucial. In this section, we’ll break down what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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1 pound of spaghetti
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8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
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1 cup of Parmesan cheese, shredded
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2 cloves of garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon of olive oil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: protein of your choice (chicken, bacon, or sausage), vegetables (spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers)
These ingredients will help you create a rich and creamy sauce that’s perfect for coating your spaghetti. The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To prepare and bake your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, you’ll need the following equipment:
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A large pot for boiling spaghetti
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A colander for draining pasta
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A mixing bowl for combining cream cheese and Parmesan cheese
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A baking dish for baking the spaghetti
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A measuring cup for measuring ingredients
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A spoon or spatula for mixing and serving
Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and equipment, let’s move on to the next part, where we’ll dive into the step-by-step guide to making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is easier than you think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this delicious dish:
Preparing the Spaghetti
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
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Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
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Set the spaghetti aside and let it cool slightly.
Making the Cream Cheese Sauce
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In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese.
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Mix the cheese until it’s smooth and creamy.
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Add the minced garlic and mix well.
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If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Combining Spaghetti and Cream Cheese Sauce
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Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese sauce and toss until the pasta is well coated.
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If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water.
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Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Baking the Spaghetti
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Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese.
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Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with parsley or basil for garnish.
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Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
And that’s it! Your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is now ready to be served. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients to make it even more delicious.
Variations and Add-ins
One of the best things about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for variations and add-ins:
Adding Proteins
If you want to make your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti more substantial, consider adding some protein. Here are a few options:
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Cooked chicken: Shredded or diced chicken can be added to the spaghetti mixture for extra flavor and texture.
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Bacon or sausage: Crispy bacon or cooked sausage can be crumbled on top of the spaghetti before baking.
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Meatballs: Homemade or store-bought meatballs can be added to the spaghetti mixture for a hearty twist.
Vegetarian Options
If you’re a vegetarian, don’t worry – you can still enjoy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. Here are some ideas:
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Spinach: Fresh spinach leaves can be added to the spaghetti mixture for a burst of nutrients and flavor.
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Cherry tomatoes: Halved or quartered cherry tomatoes can be added on top of the spaghetti before baking for a pop of color and sweetness.
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Roasted vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant can be added to the spaghetti mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Spicing It Up
If you want to give your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti a bit of a kick, consider adding some spices or herbs. Here are a few options:
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Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spaghetti mixture for a spicy kick.
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Italian seasoning: Mix some Italian seasoning into the cream cheese sauce for an herby flavor.
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Garlic powder: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder on top of the spaghetti before baking for an extra boost of flavor.
For more delicious recipe ideas, check out our Pizza Meatloaf .
Tips and Tricks
To ensure that your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti turns out perfectly, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind:
Achieving the Perfect Creaminess
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Use high-quality cream cheese: The better the cream cheese, the creamier the sauce will be.
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Don’t overmix: Mix the cream cheese sauce just until it’s smooth, and then stop mixing to avoid breaking the cheese.
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Add pasta water: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of pasta water to thin it out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overcooking the spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti al dente to avoid it becoming mushy.
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Overbaking: Bake the spaghetti just until the top is golden brown, and then remove it from the oven to avoid drying it out.
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Using low-quality ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a delicious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti that might help you:
How to Make Spaghetti with Cream Cheese?
To make spaghetti with cream cheese, you’ll need to cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, then mix it with a sauce made from softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Finally, bake the spaghetti in the oven until the top is golden brown.
Can I Bake Cream Cheese in the Oven?
Yes, you can bake cream cheese in the oven. In fact, baking cream cheese with spaghetti is a great way to create a creamy and indulgent sauce. Just be sure to mix the cream cheese with other ingredients like Parmesan cheese and garlic to prevent it from burning or becoming too brown.
Can You Put Cream Cheese in a Pasta Bake?
Absolutely! Cream cheese is a great addition to pasta bakes like Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. It adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish, and can be mixed with other ingredients like Parmesan cheese and herbs for extra flavor.
How to Melt Cream Cheese into Sauce?
To melt cream cheese into a sauce, you’ll need to soften it first by leaving it at room temperature or microwaving it for a few seconds. Then, mix the softened cream cheese with other ingredients like milk or pasta water to create a smooth and creamy sauce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender spaghetti, and golden-brown top, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and easy dinner idea, or a foodie looking for a new recipe to try, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is definitely worth checking out.
By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be able to create a mouth-watering Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs from your family and friends!
