Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole. This dish is a heartwarming blend of al dente spaghetti enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, all crowned with a golden, bubbly cheese crust. The sweet red pepper adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory flavors of garlic and onion, while the luxurious blend of Parmesan and cheddar cheese creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is simply irresistible.
Perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to be the highlight of your meal. It’s not just a dish; it’s a moment of joy and comfort, promising to satisfy your cravings with every forkful. Let this casserole be a celebration of the simple pleasures that good food can bring into our lives, inviting you to savor the love and care baked into every bite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 300g Spaghetti
- 1 Sweet Red Pepper, finely chopped
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 heaping tablespoon Flour
- 250 ml Chicken Broth
- 125 ml Cream
- 40g Butter
- 100g Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 100g Cheddar Cheese, grated
- Fresh Parsley, chopped
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Melt the butter in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic to the pan and cook until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring well to combine. Cook for a couple of minutes.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture starts to thicken.
- Add the cream to the pan, bringing the sauce to a boil again while stirring. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smoothly combined with the sauce.
- Boil water in a separate pot, add salt, and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Spread the sweet red pepper evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the casserole and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 650 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why This Recipe Works
The Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that works because of its harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
- Rich Sauce: The creamy sauce, made with butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream, provides a comforting and indulgent base for the dish.
- Flavorful Additions: The sweet red pepper adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors of garlic and onion.
- Cheese Perfection: The combination of Parmesan and cheddar cheese creates a melty, cheesy crust that is both satisfying and delicious.
- Noodles and Sauce: The al dente spaghetti is coated in the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti until al dente to maintain its texture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers! Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Sharing Your Creation
- Instagram: Share a photo of your finished casserole on Instagram using the hashtag #CreamyBakedSpaghetti.
- Pinterest: Pin your recipe to your favorite Pinterest board.
- Friends and Family: Invite friends and family over to enjoy your delicious creation.
Conclusion
The Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, comforting texture, and easy preparation, it is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this classic recipe and experiment with different variations to make it your own.