Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together tender spaghetti, creamy cheese sauce, and a little bit of Southern charm. With its rich, cheesy layers and a hint of spices, this bake is all about warm, home-cooked goodness that you just can’t resist. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or any time you want something filling and satisfying.
I love making this dish because it’s so easy to put together, but everyone always thinks I spent hours on it. The creamy sauce and melted cheese form this delicious blanket over the noodles, making every bite gooey and just right. One tip I swear by is adding a little extra cheese on top so you get those golden, crispy edges that make this bake even better. It’s always a hit, and leftovers heat up just as nicely, which makes busy weeknights a little easier.
When I serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake, I like to pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, whether it’s a casual supper or a weekend treat. I often think of those cozy evenings with family when a warm, cheesy casserole like this one feels just right — and everyone asks for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works best here for that classic, tender texture. If you want a gluten-free option, try brown rice or chickpea pasta—just watch cooking time.
Ground Meat: Ground beef or pork sausage gives great flavor. For a lighter dish, use ground turkey or plant-based crumbles instead.
Cream Cheese: This is what makes the sauce creamy and smooth. If you don’t have cream cheese, mascarpone or ricotta can work well too.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, while mozzarella brings meltiness. You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby if you prefer a milder taste.
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality jarred sauce saves time here. If you want, add extra seasoning or fresh tomatoes for a fresher taste.
How Can I Make the Sauce Creamy Without It Becoming Clumpy?
Mixing the cream cheese and milk separately until smooth helps avoid lumps in the sauce. Then stir this creamy mix into the hot meat sauce gently so it blends well.
- Use softened cream cheese for easier blending.
- Warm your milk slightly before mixing for smoother texture.
- Stir constantly when combining, but don’t rush to avoid curdling.
- If lumps appear, a quick whisk or blending with an immersion blender helps smooth them out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the spaghetti evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the meat and cooking the sauce together.
- Mixing bowl – to smooth out the cream cheese with milk easily.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – roomy enough to bake the spaghetti bake without spilling.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the sauce and toss the pasta gently.
- Cheese grater – handy if you shred your own cheddar and mozzarella for fresher flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for spicy Italian sausage to add a kick of flavor.
- Mix in steamed spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a mild spicy twist you might enjoy.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers sautéed with the onions for a veggie boost and more texture.
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or ground pork sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 30 minutes to bake. Including boiling the pasta and cooking the meat sauce, you should allow around 50 minutes in total. Plus, give it about 5 minutes to cool slightly before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until it’s just tender (al dente). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook your ground beef or sausage until nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 4-5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Sauce and Seasoning:
Pour in your marinara or spaghetti sauce. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Make It Creamy:
In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and milk together until smooth and creamy. Add this cream cheese mixture to the meat sauce and stir well so the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the creamy meat sauce until the noodles are well coated.
7. Bake:
Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden brown.
8. Serve:
Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if you like, then serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy Southern spaghetti bake!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the meat before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave to speed up the process. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture.
Can I Make This Spaghetti Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to step 9, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally for even heat.
Can I Substitute Other Cheeses?
Yes! Feel free to swap cheddar or mozzarella for cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a bit of spice, or provolone. Just choose cheeses that melt well to keep that creamy, gooey texture.
