Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is translucent. Drain excess fat.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and stir until evenly coated.
6. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. Top with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti mixture and mozzarella cheese.
9. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe.

• Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

A: Yes, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe, but the taste and texture may vary slightly.

• Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

A: Yes, you can customize the cheese in this dish to suit your preferences, such as using cheddar or provolone instead of mozzarella.

• Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.

• Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful tips:

• For added flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or diced vegetables to the ground beef mixture.
• To make this dish vegetarian, substitute meatless crumbles for the ground beef.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different seasonings such as red pepper flakes or paprika for a spicier kick.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier alternative.
• Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for added crunch.
• Drizzle olive oil over the casserole before baking for extra richness.
• Make individual portions in ramekins for a more elegant presentation.
• Feel free to add a can of diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the spaghetti al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole.
• Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste by adding more garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or salt and pepper.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Use a good quality Parmesan cheese for a more robust flavor.
• To make the dish more indulgent, add a layer of cooked and crumbled sausage between the spaghetti layers.
• If you prefer a crispy top, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.
• Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite herbs and spices for a unique twist.
• Use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version of this dish.
• Enjoy leftovers the next day by reheating in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.