Cheesy Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Dish! 🍝🧀✨
1. Introduction
If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and creamy pasta dish that embodies southern comfort food at its finest, then look no further than this southern spaghetti bake. Also known as a cheesy spaghetti casserole, this delightful creamy pasta bake combines tender spaghetti with rich cheese and flavorful ingredients to create a dish that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this cheesy spaghetti casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that offers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
2. Ingredients for the Cheesy Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Perfect Southern Spaghetti Bake
Preparing the Pasta
Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the cream cheese until melted, then pour in the heavy cream. Mix well, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and black pepper.
Combining the Ingredients
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the cheese sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Mix in the crumbled bacon for that smoky flavor and extra richness.
Assembling and Baking
Transfer the cheesy spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with additional cheese if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until bubbling and golden on top.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Southern Spaghetti Bake
Let the dish cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until hot or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. This cheesy spaghetti casserole tastes just as good the next day!
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Creamy Pasta Bake
Serve this southern comfort food with a side of garlic bread using delicious cheesy garlic rolls, and a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese.
6. FAQs About the Southern Spaghetti Bake
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Absolutely! You can swap cheddar and mozzarella with Monterey Jack, Colby, or any melting cheese you prefer. Vegan cheeses can also be used for dairy-free options.
How long does it take to make this dish?
From start to finish, this cheesy spaghetti casserole takes approximately 45 minutes, including prep and baking time.
Is this dish suitable for feeding larger groups?
Yes! You can double the ingredients and bake in a large casserole dish to serve a crowd. It is perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker: Make your cheesy sauce or prepare other meal elements effortlessly. This slow cooker simplifies meal prep for busy days.
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master: Handy for chopping onions or garlic quickly, making your prep work faster and safer.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker: Keep beverages cold for serving alongside your cheesy Southern spaghetti bake and impress guests with chilled drinks.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer: Useful for mixing ingredients or preparing other baked goods to complement your meal.
8. Additional Tips for the Best Southern Spaghetti Bake
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Adjust the cheese types and amounts to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Use high-quality ingredients for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
9. Conclusion
This southern spaghetti bake truly captures the essence of comfort food, combining cheesy, creamy goodness with pasta perfection. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish will not disappoint. With simple steps and versatile ingredients, you can customize this cheesy spaghetti casserole to suit your taste. Enjoy the warm, cheesy feeling in every bite and make memories around this delicious creamy pasta bake.
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Cheesy Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake – Ultimate Comfort Dish!
A rich and creamy southern-style spaghetti casserole layered with cheese, savory sauce, and tender pasta, baked to perfection for ultimate comfort.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can add cooked sausage or bacon for extra flavor.
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melting results.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg