Description
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting oven-baked pasta dish made with tender spaghetti, a creamy cream cheese and tomato-based sauce, and melted cheese on top, perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 400 g spaghetti
- 200 g cream cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 400 g canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 150 g shredded mozzarella cheese
- 50 g grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes.
- Lower the heat and mix in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Remove from oven, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can add cooked chicken or vegetables for extra protein and nutrition.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes to the sauce.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired