Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
A comforting pasta dish blending creamy textures with zesty flavors, perfect for family gatherings and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti Cooked according to package instructions.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Choose your favorite brand.
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup heavy cream For creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Divided for topping and mixing.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese For creaminess and richness.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Divided for topping and mixing.
Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adjust according to preference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For greasing the baking dish.
Garnishes
- to taste Fresh parsley for garnish Optional for flavor and decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, mixing until well combined.
Assembly
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, and creamy cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until all pasta is coated.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top of the spaghetti bake for that golden, cheesy crust.
Baking
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve!
Notes
Consider mixing different kinds of cheese or adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.