Ingredients:
1 lb of ground beef
1 jar of spaghetti sauce
8 oz of cream cheese
¼ cup sour cream
½ lb cottage cheese (equals 1 cup)
½ cup butter (1 stick)
1 pkg spaghetti 16 oz
Grated cheddar cheese
Related Recipes:
Directions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the perfect temperature for baking your casserole to perfection.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook it until al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside. Cooking the pasta just right is crucial for the perfect texture in your casserole.
3. Mix the Creamy Layer
In a bowl, blend the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until you have a smooth and well-combined mixture. This creamy layer will add a rich and tangy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the meat sauce and pasta.
4. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and then stir in the spaghetti sauce with the beef, combining them well. This meat sauce is the heart of the casserole, providing a savory base that complements the creamy and cheesy layers.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and place a few slices of butter at the bottom. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the butter. Next, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti. Then, add the remaining spaghetti on top and dot with slices of butter. Finally, pour the meat sauce over everything, ensuring the top is fully covered.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, sprinkle your desired amount of grated cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This final touch of cheese creates a beautifully melted layer that’s irresistible.
Conclusion
This baked spaghetti casserole recipe is a testament to the magic of combining simple ingredients to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. With its creamy, cheesy layers and robust meat sauce, this casserole is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting and delicious meal. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dish that promises to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.