Crafting a comforting and mouthwatering meal is a breeze with this straightforward recipe for Baked Spaghetti Casserole. Delight in the layers of seasoned ground beef, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a decadent blend of creamy cheeses that unite to create a truly satisfying culinary masterpiece. Allow the simple directions below to guide you through the steps, ensuring a flavorful and comforting dining experience.
To begin, assemble the following ingredients: lean ground beef, al dente spaghetti, a savory tomato sauce, a melty combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and a hint of aromatic Italian herbs. The marriage of these elements will transform ordinary ingredients into a dish that exudes warmth and flavor. Start the culinary journey by browning the ground beef to perfection, infusing it with a medley of spices that will lay the foundation for a robust and savory flavor profile. While the beef sizzles, prepare the spaghetti according to package instructions, ensuring a tender yet slightly firm texture that will withstand the baking process.
Assemble the layers in a baking dish, with each stratum contributing to the overall harmony of flavors. Begin with a generous layer of seasoned ground beef, followed by a nest of perfectly cooked spaghetti. Pour the velvety tomato sauce over the layers, allowing it to seep into every nook and cranny, infusing the dish with a rich tomato goodness.
Top off this symphony of flavors with a lavish sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, creating a golden, bubbly crust that promises a delightful contrast of textures. Slide the casserole into the oven, where it will transform into a cheesy, gooey, and irresistibly aromatic delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Ground Beef
– 1 jar (26 oz) Spaghetti Sauce
– 8 ounces Spaghetti, uncooked
– 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
– 1 cup Sour Cream
– 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
– 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Directions:
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. **Cook Ground Beef:** In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
3. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, spaghetti sauce, uncooked spaghetti, softened cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
4. **Spoon into Baking Dish:** Spoon the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
6. **Cool Before Serving:** Let the baked spaghetti casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Once the Baked Spaghetti Casserole emerges from the oven, take in the tantalizing aroma that wafts through your kitchen. Allow it to cool for a moment before serving, ensuring that each forkful delivers the perfect balance of meaty, cheesy, and noodle goodness. This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a comforting meal that will become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors of this Baked Spaghetti Casserole. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it alongside a green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.