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Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

A comforting Southern-style spaghetti casserole baked with rich meat sauce, cream cheese, and melted cheddar for the ultimate cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles
  • 1 lb ground beef (or sausage)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • 2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and toss with butter.
  • 3. In a skillet, cook ground beef with diced onion until browned. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  • 4. Pour in marinara sauce, stir, and let simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  • 5. In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Mix until smooth.
  • 6. Layer half of the spaghetti in the baking dish, then spread the cream cheese mixture evenly.
  • 7. Top with half of the meat sauce, then repeat layers with remaining spaghetti and sauce.
  • 8. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  • 9. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • 10. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

  • You can prepare this ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.
  • Try mixing half beef and half Italian sausage for a richer flavor.
  • Freezes beautifully just thaw overnight before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake, spaghetti casserole, baked pasta, Southern comfort food