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Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
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Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a warm, comforting dish combining tender spaghetti noodles with a luscious, sharp cheddar and cream cheese sauce infused with savory Southern flavors. This one-pan bake is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, offering a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 8 oz spaghetti noodles

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Optional Protein

  • 1/2 lb ground beef or sausage, cooked and drained (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Spaghetti: Boil spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, taking care not to overcook as the noodles will bake further in the oven.
  2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Stir in cream cheese and milk, whisking continuously until smooth. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, seasoning with salt, pepper, and paprika, stirring until the sauce is melted and creamy.
  3. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked spaghetti noodles into the cheese sauce until every strand is fully coated. If using cooked ground beef or sausage, stir it in now to evenly distribute the protein throughout the bake.
  4. Bake It to Perfection: Transfer the creamy spaghetti mixture into a well-greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden, bubbly crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and bubbly.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to preserve texture after baking.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for optimal melting and flavor.
  • Sauté onions and garlic first to build deeper flavor in the sauce.
  • Grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • Let the bake rest a few minutes after removing from the oven to set before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Southern spaghetti bake, creamy spaghetti casserole, cheesy spaghetti bake, comfort food, family dinner

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/creamy-southern-spaghetti-bake/