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Creamy Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti Casserole

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A creamy, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole that is easy to prepare and perfect for cozy dinners. This dish combines spaghetti, ground beef, cream cheese, and a blend of cheeses for a comforting and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 g) spaghetti, cooked al dente
  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef, browned and drained
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 ½ cups (360 ml) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound (450 g) ground beef with 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft, about 7 minutes. Drain excess fat. Season with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces (225 g) softened cream cheese, 1 ½ cups (360 ml) tomato sauce, 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella. Stir until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add the cooked spaghetti and browned beef mixture to the creamy cheese bowl. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
  5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish. Sprinkle ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is browned and bubbly.
  7. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Do not overcook the spaghetti; it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain the beef well to avoid greasy sauce. Soften cream cheese before mixing for smooth texture. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly. Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving for easier portioning.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked spaghetti, casserole, creamy pasta, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef pasta

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/creamy-million-dollar-baked-spaghetti-casserole-easy-recipe-for-dinner-delight/