Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Intensity:

• Preparation: Easy
• Cooking: Medium

Ingredients:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream or milk
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
   • Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Drain any excess fat.
   • Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream (or milk).
   • Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and the cream cheese mixture.
   • Mix until the spaghetti is well coated.
   • Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Top with half of the meat sauce.
   • Repeat with the remaining spaghetti mixture and meat sauce.
6. Add Cheese and Bake:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
   • Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
   • Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 22g

Notes:

• You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce for extra nutrition.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.