Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients

  • butter

    divided

    5 tbsp
  • spaghetti
    16 oz
  • chicken bouillon powder

    for boiling pasta

    1 tbsp
  • ground beef
    1 lb
  • italian seasoning
    1 tbsp
  • a pinch of salt
  • 24-oz jar marinara sauce
    1
  • 8-oz container cottage cheese
    1
  • 8-oz package cream cheese

    softened

    1
  • sour cream
    ¼ c
  • 8-oz package shredded italian-blend cheese

    divided, 2 cups

    1
  • grated parmesan cheese

    for garnish

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 2- to 3-quart baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.

  2. 2

    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and stir in 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. 3

    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef with Italian seasoning and a pinch of salt until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce and set aside.

  4. 4

    In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Stir until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of the shredded Italian-blend cheese.

  5. 5

    Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in the prepared baking dish.

  6. 6

    Spoon the cheese mixture over the spaghetti and spread evenly.

  7. 7

    Sprinkle a layer of Italian-blend cheese on top.

  8. 8

    Add the remaining spaghetti on top.

  9. 9

    Slice the remaining 4 tablespoons butter and dot over the spaghetti.

  10. 10

    Spread the beef and marinara mixture evenly on top.

  11. 11

    Sprinkle the remaining shredded Italian-blend cheese over everything.

  12. 12

    Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is melted.

  13. 13

    Remove from oven, let rest a few minutes, then garnish with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

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About this Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table? This Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole transforms everyday pasta into a deeply satisfying, hearty dinner, perfect for any night you crave something truly special.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is its incredible richness. The generous use of cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream creates an unbelievably luscious, tangy layer that perfectly complements the savory ground beef and marinara. Plus, a smart touch of chicken bouillon in the pasta water infuses extra savory depth right from the start, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Prepare for a symphony of textures and tastes with this classic million dollar spaghetti bake. You'll encounter tender spaghetti coated in a robust, seasoned ground beef and marinara sauce, beautifully contrasted by a creamy, dreamy blend of cheeses. The top layer of melted, bubbly Italian-blend cheese adds a golden, gooey finish, promising a comforting and delicious experience that feels both familiar and indulgent. This layered spaghetti bake offers a hearty, satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite.

While fantastic as is, this spaghetti casserole is also wonderfully adaptable to your preferences. You could easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile, or even try a combination. For an extra boost of vegetables, consider stirring in some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef as it cooks. Don't have Italian-blend cheese? Mozzarella or a sharp cheddar would also work beautifully for the top layer.

This hearty, satisfying spaghetti bake is perfect for a comforting weeknight family dinner or as an impressive centerpiece for a casual gathering. Serve it alongside a simple green salad and crusty bread to complete the meal.

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