EASY SOUTHERN SPAGHETTI BAKE

Few things hit the spot like a bubbling, cheesy casserole, especially after a long day, and this Southern Spaghetti Bake is pure comfort in a dish. Imagine layers of tender spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and a blanket of melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Trust me, this Southern Spaghetti Bake will quickly become a family favorite, and I’m here to walk you through every single step!

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• Water for boiling
• 1 tablespoon salt

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Cheese Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain the spaghetti well and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth; a few lumps are fine.
2. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Reserve the remaining 1 cup for topping.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and the cream cheese mixture. Toss gently to coat the spaghetti evenly.
3. Pour half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Spread half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti layer.
5. Repeat the layers: remaining spaghetti mixture, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
6. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
2. Let the casserole stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit and makes it easier to slice.

Tips and Tricks for Spaghetti Bake Perfection

• Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Al dente is key! Overcooked spaghetti will turn mushy in the casserole.
• Spice it up: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
• Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a Colby Jack blend would all be delicious.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Instructions: Southern Spaghetti Bake can be frozen. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Variations to Make it Your Own

• Add Veggies: Sauté some bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini with the onion and garlic for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Use Italian Sausage: Substitute Italian sausage for the ground beef for a different flavor profile.
• Creamy Tomato Sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the meat sauce for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Add Cottage Cheese: Some people love adding a layer of cottage cheese for extra creaminess and protein.
• Make it Lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef, and use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Spaghetti Bake is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also delicious served with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. For a truly Southern experience, pair it with collard greens or green beans. It’s a great dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings. Your friends and family will rave about this simple but satisfying meal! If you’re looking for another great casserole recipe, check out this delicious Chicken Casserole.

Other Comfort Food Favorites

If you loved this Southern Spaghetti Bake, you might also enjoy these other classic comfort food recipes:

• Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A creamy, cheesy twist on classic spaghetti.
• Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: Another delectable variation.
• Baked Mac And Cheese: The ultimate comfort food side dish.
• Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: A creamy, cheesy twist on classic spaghetti.
• Chicken Spaghetti: Another take on a spaghetti favourite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of pasta?

While spaghetti is the classic choice, you can definitely experiment with other types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also use a vegetarian meat substitute.

How long does it last in the refrigerator?

Leftover Southern Spaghetti Bake will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Ready to Dig In?

This Southern Spaghetti Bake is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious casserole with your loved ones. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a dish that will bring back memories for years to come. Happy cooking!