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The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together creamy textures, hearty meats, and gooey, melty cheese in a delightful baked pasta dish perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Each bite is a comforting blend of flavors and textures, showcasing an easy-to-follow recipe that transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this dish shine. Each component is carefully chosen to bring the right balance of creaminess, seasoning, and savory depth that The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe is loved for.
- 16 oz thin spaghetti: The perfect pasta base that cooks up light and tender, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully.
- 2 eggs: Binds the ingredients ensuring the baked spaghetti holds together without losing its creamy texture.
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 5 Tbsp butter (melted): Brings richness and helps coat the pasta evenly.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that awakens the dish with classic herbaceous notes.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Gives a subtle punch of savory warmth that complements the other flavors.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened): Creates luscious creaminess that elevates the dish’s texture.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and smoothness to balance the richness of cheese and butter.
- 1 lb Italian sausage or hamburger (cooked): The hearty protein that infuses the dish with bold, savory goodness.
- 1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce: Brings zesty tomato flavor and moisture for a classic pasta experience.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a golden, bubbly topping that makes this recipe a winner every time.
How to Make The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This simple step ensures your baked spaghetti won’t stick and will come out perfectly in one piece.
Step 2: Cook and Toss the Spaghetti
Boil the spaghetti until just tender according to package directions, then drain well. Next, whisk together the eggs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter, then toss everything with the warm pasta. This mixture helps the noodles stay moist and flavorful as they bake.
Step 3: Layer the Creamy Mixture
In a small bowl, blend the Italian seasoning, minced garlic, softened cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth. Spread this luscious cream cheese mixture evenly over the pasta in your baking dish—it’s what brings the recipe’s signature creamy texture.
Step 4: Add Meat and Sauce Layers
Combine your cooked Italian sausage or hamburger with the jar of spaghetti sauce, stirring to mix all that rich flavor. Spread this meaty sauce blend over the cream cheese layer, making sure every bit is covered for maximum taste in every bite.
Step 5: Top with Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top—this cheese will melt into a bubbly, golden crown for your baked spaghetti. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the cheese is deliciously melted and bubbling around the edges.
How to Serve The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped basil or parsley sprinkled over the top just before serving adds a bright, herbal contrast that instantly lifts the dish. A light dusting of extra parmesan can also add a final touch of cheesy goodness and elevate the presentation.
Side Dishes
Serve this bountiful baked spaghetti alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. Roasted vegetables or a simple Caesar salad also make excellent, fresh sides that balance the richness of the pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe in individual ramekins for a fun, personalized touch, perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, layering the casserole in clear glass dishes allows guests to admire the saucy, cheesy goodness before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked spaghetti keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before storing to preserve the creamy texture without sogginess.
Freezing
The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. This makes it ideal for batch cooking or easy weeknight dinners.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350ºF oven for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway to keep that cheesy sauce perfectly creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While thin spaghetti is recommended to keep the texture light and silky, you can swap in penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s al dente before baking.
What can I substitute for Italian sausage?
If you prefer a milder flavor or need a vegetarian option, ground beef or turkey are great alternatives. For a veggie version, try sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute to keep all the deliciousness intact.
Is it possible to make The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that the spaghetti sauce and other ingredients don’t contain gluten. Cooking and baking times remain the same, making it an easy swap.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely. You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it overnight before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days or hosting, as the flavors meld wonderfully with some resting time.
How do I know when the baked spaghetti is done?
The cheese on top should be fully melted and bubbly, with a slight golden brown color at the edges. The internal temperature should be hot and steaming, usually about 45 minutes in the oven at 350ºF.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe. It’s comfort food that feels special every time you make it, with a creamy, cheesy, and savory combination that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t hesitate to try it soon — you might just find a new family favorite to cherish for years to come!
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The Ultimate Baked Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Ultimate Baked Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and savory pasta casserole perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Tender spaghetti is tossed with eggs, parmesan, and butter, layered with a rich cream cheese mixture, hearty Italian sausage, and a flavorful spaghetti sauce, then baked until bubbling with melted mozzarella on top.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese Mixture
- 16 oz thin spaghetti
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 5 Tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb Italian sausage or hamburger, cooked
- 1 (24-oz) jar spaghetti sauce
Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Cook the Spaghetti and Combine with Egg Mixture: Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Toss this mixture with the cooked spaghetti to coat it evenly. Transfer the coated pasta into the prepared baking pan.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In another bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, minced garlic, softened cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth and well mixed. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the spaghetti layer in the pan.
- Add Meat Sauce Layer: Mix the cooked Italian sausage or ground hamburger with the jar of spaghetti sauce until combined. Spread this meat sauce evenly over the cream cheese layer.
- Top with Mozzarella and Bake: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the layered casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly. Remove from oven and let it rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef or turkey for Italian sausage if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add chopped onions or bell peppers to the cooked meat mixture.
- Letting the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
