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### **Step-by-Step Instructions:**
#### **Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti**
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside. You can drizzle a small amount of olive oil on the cooked pasta to prevent it from sticking together while you prepare the sauce.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce**
While the pasta is cooking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Next, add the cream cheese to the skillet, breaking it into chunks so it melts evenly. Stir the cream cheese and butter together until it forms a smooth, creamy mixture.
Once the cream cheese is melted, add the sour cream or heavy cream, followed by the ricotta cheese (if using). Stir everything together until it’s fully combined and creamy. Then, season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Add in the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce, making it even richer and creamier. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
#### **Step 3: Combine the Spaghetti with the Sauce**
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the cream cheese sauce. Toss the spaghetti gently to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce. Make sure all the pasta is covered and well-mixed. If you’re using a large skillet, you may need to do this in batches or work in stages.
#### **Step 4: Assemble the Dish**
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Transfer the coated spaghetti into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by Parmesan cheese. If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top for a bit of crunch.
#### **Step 5: Bake the Dish**
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the gratin for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
#### **Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
Once the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve it hot, and enjoy the rich, creamy, cheesy goodness that is this ultimate comfort food.
## **Variations and Tips for the Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti**
While the classic version of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is delicious on its own, there are several ways you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:
### **1. Add Protein**
If you want to turn this dish into a full meal with extra protein, consider adding grilled chicken, ground beef, sausage, or even shrimp. Simply cook your choice of protein and layer it with the pasta before baking.
### **2. Vegetables for Added Flavor**
Adding vegetables like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor profile and increase the nutritional value of the dish. You can cook them along with the garlic and butter at the beginning to build their flavor.
### **3. Spice it Up**
If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. This will add a mild kick to the dish without overpowering the creamy texture.
### **4. Make it Gluten-Free**
To make the recipe gluten-free, simply swap out regular spaghetti for a gluten-free pasta variety. Make sure to check that the cream cheese, sour cream, and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
### **5. Vegan Option**
For a vegan version, you can use dairy-free cream cheese, vegan mozzarella, and a plant-based sour cream or coconut cream. Make sure to choose vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for added flavor. Use a plant-based pasta like rice or quinoa pasta for a fully vegan dish.
### **6. Skip the Baking**
If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the baking step and serve the creamy, cheesy pasta directly from the stovetop. Just be sure to top it with extra cheese and let it melt for a few minutes for that same comforting effect.
## **Why Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the Ultimate Comfort Food**
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti embodies the essence of comfort food—rich, creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a casserole dish, combining familiar flavors with a touch of indulgence. The creamy cheese sauce clings to each strand of spaghetti, while the golden cheese crust on top creates a contrast of textures that elevates the dish.
Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or at a potluck, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare, customizable to suit your preferences, and can be made in advance for a hassle-free meal. And let’s not forget how wonderfully comforting it is to dig into a cheesy, pasta-packed dish on a chilly day.
## **Conclusion**
In conclusion, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that’s as delicious as it is versatile. The combination of cream cheese, pasta, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s creamy, savory, and completely satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or sharing it with friends, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen.
