Are you looking for a comforting and delicious dish to try out? Look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! Creamy and cheesy, this hearty casserole is sure to be a hit with your family.
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 (24 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss to coat.
5. Pour spaghetti sauce over the spaghetti mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
8. Let it cool slightly before serving.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350
– Total Fat: 18g
– Cholesterol: 50mg
– Sodium: 450mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 15g
**Popular Questions:**
1. Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
– Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of pasta for this casserole.
2. Can I use homemade spaghetti sauce instead of jarred sauce?
– Absolutely, homemade sauce can add a fresh flavor to the dish.
3. Can I add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers?
– Yes, adding vegetables can enhance the flavor and nutritional value of this dish.
4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
– Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
– Yes, this casserole freezes well for future meals.
6. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
– Yes, Greek yogurt can be a suitable replacement for sour cream in this recipe.
7. Can I use different types of cheese?
– Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor of the casserole.
8. Can I add ground meat to the casserole?
– Yes, cooked ground meat can be a delicious addition to this dish.
9. Can I top the casserole with breadcrumbs for added crunch?
– Absolutely, breadcrumbs can add a nice texture to the dish.
10. Can I garnish the casserole with fresh herbs?
– Yes, fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
2. Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier twist.
3. Top the casserole with additional shredded cheese for a cheesy crust.
4. Sprinkle chopped crispy bacon on top before serving for a savory touch.
5. Serve the casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
6. Experiment with different types of spaghetti sauce for unique flavor variations.
7. Try adding cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
8. Make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding more veggies.
9. Use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter dish.
10. Customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, such as adding Italian herbs or cayenne pepper.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. To prevent the casserole from drying out, cover it with foil during baking and uncover for the last 10 minutes to brown the top.
2. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set and make it easier to slice.
3. Adjust the seasoning of the cream cheese mixture according to your taste preference.
4. Use a quality spaghetti sauce for a more flavorful dish.
5. Be generous with the cheese for a gooey and indulgent casserole.
6. To save time, use pre-cooked spaghetti and simply mix it with the cream cheese mixture before baking.
7. Keep an eye on the casserole while baking to prevent it from burning.
8. Add a touch of sweetness by incorporating a little sugar or honey into the sauce.
9. For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the casserole before baking.
10. Get creative with garnishes like chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for presentation.