Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together tender spaghetti noodles, a rich creamy sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses that create the perfect cozy meal. It’s the kind of bake that fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma and promises a delicious, satisfying bite every time.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels like a hug on a plate. The creamy sauce has just the right balance of flavors—there’s a hint of southern charm with a savory touch that makes everyone at the table smile. I usually toss in a little extra cheese on top to get that beautiful golden crust that’s impossible to resist.
This spaghetti bake is great for family dinners or potlucks because it’s easy to make ahead and always pleases the crowd. I like serving it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to lighten things up a bit. It’s the kind of meal that reminds me of good times around the table, sharing stories and laughter with loved ones.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I like spaghetti here because its thin strands hold the creamy sauce well. If you want, try using fettuccine or penne for a different texture.
Ground Beef: Ground beef brings a meaty heartiness. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken to keep it lighter, or make it vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms or lentils.
Cream Cheese & Heavy Cream: These give the sauce a smooth, rich creaminess. If you want a lower-fat option, use half-and-half or Greek yogurt, added off the heat to avoid curdling.
Cheese Blend: Mozzarella and cheddar melt well and add flavor. Parmesan on top adds a nice bite. Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Colby for a twist.
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality jarred marinara saves time. You can substitute with homemade tomato sauce or add a spoon of tomato paste for extra depth.
How Do You Get the Creamy Sauce Smooth and Well-Mixed?
Combining cream cheese into the meat sauce can be tricky if it’s not softened or mixed right. Here’s how to avoid lumps and get a silky sauce:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
- Warm the heavy cream gently and then whisk it into the cream cheese until smooth before adding to the sauce.
- Stir the cream cheese mixture into the sauce over low heat so it blends evenly without breaking.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of pasta water or milk to loosen it up.
Taking these steps makes a creamy sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti perfectly. It’s worth the little extra care!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the spaghetti evenly without crowding.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions.
- Mixing bowl – to soften and blend the cream cheese with heavy cream smoothly.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – gives your bake enough room to cook evenly and form a nice cheesy top.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – easy to stir and mix without scratching your pans.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that still pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Add cooked crumbled sausage to boost flavor and add a bit of spice for extra Southern flair.
- Mix in chopped spinach or kale to add a fresh, healthy touch without overpowering the creamy texture.
- Stir in diced roasted red peppers or jalapeños for a sweet or spicy kick depending on your taste.
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble, plus 20-25 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish – perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce & Combine:
In a bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Add this creamy mixture to the meat sauce, stirring until fully blended.
Pour the cooked spaghetti into the skillet and toss to coat all the noodles evenly with the sauce.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour half of the spaghetti mixture into the dish, sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
Add the remaining spaghetti layer on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
5. Serve & Garnish:
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil before serving. Enjoy your creamy, southern-style spaghetti bake!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture in the sauce.
Can I Make the Spaghetti Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it a little longer (about 30 minutes) until heated through and bubbly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover spaghetti bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses in This Bake?
Definitely! While mozzarella and cheddar melt nicely, you can swap in Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a little gouda for different flavor notes. Just keep the cheese quantity similar for the best melt.
