creamy spaghetti bake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best creamy spaghetti bake recipe

I’ve been making creamy spaghetti bake for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite comfort foods. This recipe is a staple in our household, and I love how easy it is to make.

The best part is that it’s perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or a special occasion like holidays or birthdays. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and they love being involved in the process of making this dish from start to finish.

It’s also a great way to get some veggies into their diet, as we add in sautéed spinach and bell peppers for added nutrition. Plus, it’s just so satisfying to see the whole family enjoying a warm, comforting meal together.

And let me tell you, this recipe is not just kid-friendly – it’s also a great way to get your daily dose of veggies without feeling like you’re sacrificing taste. We all know that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring or bland – and this creamy spaghetti bake is proof of that!

It’s also super versatile, so feel free to customize it with your favorite protein or veggies. I like to use ground beef or turkey sausage for added flavor and texture.

But honestly, you can’t go wrong with this classic combination of pasta, cream sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.

Creamy Spaghetti Bake

4.7 from 1376 votes

A comforting and creamy spaghetti bake with a rich cheese sauce, baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Spaghetti

8 oz spaghetti
salt

For the Sauce

1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Cook spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns light brown.
7Gradually add milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
8Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
9Reduce heat to low and add cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
10Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11Remove from heat.
12Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and mix well until the spaghetti is evenly coated.
13Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a baking dish.
14In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
15Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the spaghetti.
16Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
17Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Spaghetti Bake Works

This creamy spaghetti bake recipe has been a staple in my household for years, and I can confidently say it’s always a good idea for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish for family gatherings, this recipe delivers every time.

Plus, it’s so easy to reheat and serve – just pop it back in the oven until warm and bubbly. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some extra ingredients like cooked chicken or bacon bits to give it an extra boost of flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Spaghetti Bake

Q1: What is the key technique in making creamy spaghetti bake?

The key technique in making creamy spaghetti bake is to cook the pasta al dente before mixing it with the cream sauce and other ingredients.

Q2: Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta such as penne, rigatoni or even gluten-free pasta.

Q3: How do I store leftover creamy spaghetti bake?

You can store leftover creamy spaghetti bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Q4: Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can replace the ground beef or turkey sausage with plant-based alternatives such as tofu or tempeh and use vegan cream sauce instead of regular cream.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs such as gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan by using alternative ingredients.

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