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## **What is Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?**
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a fusion of classic pasta with a creamy, cheesy, and savory baked topping. The dish combines the familiar comfort of spaghetti noodles with a rich and velvety sauce made from cream cheese, making it the perfect go-to for anyone craving a comforting meal. The concept of baked pasta dishes, such as baked ziti or lasagna, has long been popular due to their ease of preparation and satisfying nature, and Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti follows in this tradition.
This dish is particularly popular for those who enjoy the creamy texture of a traditional baked mac and cheese but want to mix things up with spaghetti noodles. What sets this dish apart is the creamy base created from the combination of cream cheese, ricotta cheese (optional), and a few other ingredients that melt together beautifully to form a luscious sauce.
The top layer is often sprinkled with mozzarella cheese or a blend of cheeses and then baked in the oven to create a golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy crust. It’s the perfect combination of creamy and cheesy with a satisfying crunch on top.
## **Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti**
The best part about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is that it’s made from simple, accessible ingredients that most people already have in their kitchens. It’s a straightforward dish to prepare and doesn’t require hours of preparation. Here’s a list of the essential ingredients you’ll need:
### **For the Pasta:**
1. **Spaghetti**: The star of the dish, spaghetti is the traditional pasta choice for this recipe. However, you can substitute other pasta varieties such as penne, rotini, or fettuccine if you prefer.
2. **Salt**: To season the water when cooking the pasta.
3. **Olive Oil** (optional): You can add a splash of olive oil to the pasta water to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
### **For the Cream Cheese Sauce:**
1. **Cream Cheese**: The key ingredient that gives the dish its creamy texture. Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor.
2. **Ricotta Cheese** (optional): Some variations of the recipe include ricotta cheese for an even creamier texture.
3. **Sour Cream** or **Heavy Cream**: Adding either sour cream or heavy cream gives the sauce a velvety, smooth consistency and extra richness.
4. **Garlic**: Fresh garlic, finely minced, adds a wonderful savory depth to the sauce.
5. **Butter**: Used to sauté the garlic and help create a smooth, velvety sauce.
6. **Parmesan Cheese**: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce.
7. **Italian Seasoning**: A combination of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to give the dish that signature Italian flavor.
8. **Salt and Pepper**: To season the sauce and bring out all the flavors.
### **For the Topping:**
1. **Mozzarella Cheese**: The quintessential cheese for any baked pasta. It creates a melty, stretchy, golden layer that makes the dish irresistible.
2. **Parmesan Cheese**: Sprinkled on top for an additional layer of flavor and that golden, crispy crust.
3. **Breadcrumbs** (optional): Some people like to sprinkle breadcrumbs on top to add a crunchy texture to the baked gratin.
4. **Fresh Parsley** (optional): Chopped fresh parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top after baking for color and freshness.
## **How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti**
Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is relatively simple and straightforward. With just a few steps, you can assemble this delicious dish and have it ready for the oven. Follow the detailed instructions below for an easy-to-make and incredibly delicious meal.
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