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A close-up shot showcases a delicious Southern Spaghetti Bake, bubbling with cheese and a rich tomato sauce.
Lady Maria

Ultimate Southern Spaghetti Bake

This comforting Southern Spaghetti Bake transforms simple spaghetti into a cheesy, flavorful casserole. The combination of ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture creates a satisfying and delicious meal that's perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It's a hearty dish that's sure to become a new favorite.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. While spaghetti is cooking, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
  10. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use Italian sausage instead of ground beef. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the sauce. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To prevent the bake from drying out, cover it with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. Adjust seasonings to taste.