Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti
Are you in the mood for something indulgent tonight? Look no further than this Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti. While it may not be the healthiest option, it definitely wins in the comfort food department. This rich, creamy dish is packed with flavor, and yes, there’s bacon! It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you need a little indulgence.
Unlike many casseroles that rely on cream of mushroom soup, this recipe uses cream of bacon soup, which adds an irresistible depth of flavor. By cooking the spaghetti directly in the sauce, you save time and infuse the pasta with all the delicious flavors. It’s a comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is an absolute delight for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly creamy and cheesy, making it the perfect comfort food. The addition of bacon takes it to another level of deliciousness. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder that saves you on cleanup. It’s an easy, no-fuss meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 4 cups milk
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of bacon soup
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 lb dry spaghetti
- 3 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated and divided
- 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Fresh chives, snipped, for garnish (optional)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a large pot, combine the milk, bacon soup, cream cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- Once it’s bubbling, break the spaghetti in half and stir it into the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the spaghetti cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in 2 cups of the mozzarella cheese and half of the bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bacon. Bake until the cheese has melted and is starting to turn golden brown, about 15 minutes.
- Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chives, if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
To ensure perfect results, make sure to use softened cream cheese so it blends smoothly into the sauce. Stirring the spaghetti occasionally while it cooks helps prevent sticking. For a golden-brown top, you can broil the dish for the last few minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you’re looking to add more veggies, consider stirring in some cooked spinach or mushrooms. For an extra kick, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. This recipe is quite versatile, so feel free to customize it to your liking!
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While I don’t have exact nutritional information, it’s safe to say this dish is more about indulgence than nutritional value. Enjoy it as an occasional treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Is there a substitute for cream of bacon soup? If you can’t find cream of bacon soup, cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup would work as a substitute, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Conclusion
There you have it—a deliciously indulgent Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti that’s sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings. We hope you give this recipe a try and share your experience with us. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
