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#### Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the sauce is well distributed.
#### Step 6: Add Toppings and Bake
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole, if desired. This adds an extra layer of flavor and helps form a golden, cheesy crust on top of the casserole as it bakes. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The casserole should be hot all the way through.
#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve the casserole with a side of salad or garlic bread, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness.
### Tips for Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
1. **Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese**: For the richest, creamiest sauce, use full-fat cream cheese. It will melt better and give the casserole a silky texture.
2. **Add Meat for Extra Protein**: Ground beef, Italian sausage, or rotisserie chicken all make great additions to this casserole. They add flavor and heartiness, making the dish more filling.
3. **Customize the Cheese**: While cheddar is the classic choice for this casserole, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyère for a different twist. A combination of cheeses will give you a more complex, rich flavor.
4. **Make It Vegetarian**: For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and load up on extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. These vegetables pair well with the creamy cheese sauce.
5. **Make Ahead**: If you’re short on time, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. You can also freeze the casserole before baking—just thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
6. **Thicken the Sauce**: If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk or use a little bit of heavy cream instead. This will give the sauce a richer texture.
### Serving Suggestions for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
This casserole is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:
1. **Garlic Bread**: The perfect companion to any pasta dish, garlic bread is a must for soaking up the creamy sauce and adds a crunchy contrast to the casserole’s soft texture.
2. **Fresh Salad**: A simple side salad with leafy greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole and adds freshness to the meal.
3. **Steamed Vegetables**: Pair your casserole with steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots to add a nutritious and colorful element to the meal.
4. **Roasted Potatoes**: Crispy roasted potatoes make a great side dish, adding a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture of the casserole.
### Why Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Will Become a Family Favorite
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a pasta dish; it’s a comforting, satisfying meal that brings people together. The combination of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and savory seasoning makes it a perfect choice for busy families, potlucks, or even a quiet dinner at home. The fact that it’s easy to customize means you can make it your own, adding your favorite ingredients to suit your taste.
Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this casserole will not disappoint. It’s the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and convenience, and once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again.
### Conclusion: A Creamy, Cheesy Meal You’ll Love
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a dish that checks all the boxes—creamy, cheesy, hearty, and comforting. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that will feed your whole family and leave everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of this casserole is that it’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always delicious.
So, grab your baking dish, cook up some spaghetti, and prepare to enjoy one of the most comforting and satisfying meals you’ll ever make. Enjoy!
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