There’s something incredibly satisfying about a hearty pasta bake, especially when it’s loaded with layers of flavor, gooey cheese, and a rich meat sauce. This creamy baked spaghetti casserole brings together the best of both worlds—it’s part lasagna, part spaghetti, and all-around delicious. If you’re craving a dish that feels like home and fills the kitchen with comforting aromas, this recipe is the perfect pick. It’s a great option for busy weeknights when you want to feed the whole family with minimal fuss, or for potlucks and gatherings where a crowd-pleaser is a must.
What makes this version special is the creamy middle layer—made with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese—which adds an unexpected richness and makes every bite melt in your mouth. Topped off with a generous layer of cheddar and a meaty marinara, it transforms simple ingredients into something spectacular. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, this spaghetti casserole is pure comfort in every forkful.
Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese (½ lb)
- ½ cup butter (1 stick)
- 16 oz spaghetti
- Grated cheddar cheese (as desired)
Servings: Makes about 8 hearty servings
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil spaghetti until just tender (al dente), then drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease and stir in spaghetti sauce.
- Place a few slices of butter on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the cooked spaghetti over the butter.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cheese layer, then dot with more butter slices.
- Pour the meat and sauce mixture over the top layer of spaghetti, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 30 minutes uncovered. Remove from oven, sprinkle with desired amount of cheddar cheese, and return to bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving for best texture.
Nutritional and Dietary Notes:
This casserole is a rich and filling dish that offers a good balance of protein and carbs, thanks to the beef and pasta. The cheeses contribute creaminess and calcium but also add saturated fat, so it’s a meal best enjoyed in moderation. It is not suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals or those following a vegan diet. However, gluten-free pasta and dairy-free alternatives can be substituted to make it more allergy-friendly.
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