Description
A creamy and hearty spaghetti casserole with a blend of cream cheese, ground beef, and rich marinara sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet, bring to a simmer, and let it cook on low for 15-30 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and do not rinse.
- In a large bowl, combine cream cheese and melted butter. Add Parmesan, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and mix until smooth.
- Mix in the drained spaghetti until well coated.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half the spaghetti mixture, half of the meat sauce, and half of the mozzarella. Repeat layers.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Notes
This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Consider swapping beef for ground turkey or using low-fat cream cheese for a healthier option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg