Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together tender spaghetti, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a hint of classic Southern flavor. Imagine layers of spaghetti mixed with gooey melted cheese, a touch of creamy goodness, and a savory blend that makes every bite feel like a cozy hug.
I love making this dish when I want something warm and filling that’s easy to put together but feels special. The creamy texture combined with the slight crispiness on top from baking is one of my favorite things about it. It’s one of those meals where you can’t help but go back for seconds, and it always makes the kitchen smell amazing while it cooks.
I usually serve this with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies so the creamy spaghetti bake really stands out as the star of the meal. It’s perfect for sharing with family or friends on a relaxed evening or when you need a little comfort food to brighten your day. This recipe reminds me of good times around the dinner table, full of smiles and plates wiped clean.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Classic long pasta works best for layering and texture here. You could swap for penne or rotini if you prefer bite-sized pasta that holds sauce well.
Ground beef: Adds hearty flavor and richness. Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or go plant-based with crumbled tofu or lentils for a vegetarian twist.
Cream cheese & sour cream: These create the creamy, tangy base. If you don’t have cream cheese, Greek yogurt or ricotta can work well, though the texture may be a bit different.
Cheese blend: Mozzarella and cheddar give gooey melt and sharp flavor. You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack, and cheddar with Colby or even a bit of smoked cheese for extra depth.
Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara. Tomato basil sauce or a spicy arrabbiata are good alternatives if you want a little variation in flavor.
How Do You Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right for Baking?
The creamy sauce is what makes this dish stand out. You want it smooth so it coats the pasta evenly and bakes up nicely without drying out.
- Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing—cold cream cheese can create lumps.
- Mix cream cheese with sour cream and milk before adding cheese to ensure a smooth base.
- Don’t overmix once pasta is added—to keep those nice spaghetti strands intact.
- If the mixture feels too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk to loosen it up before baking.
- Baking melts the cheeses on top into a bubbly, slightly browned crust—watch carefully near the end to avoid burning.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the spaghetti perfectly without sticking.
- Large skillet – great for cooking the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic evenly.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the creamy cheese sauce with pasta easily.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough to bake the spaghetti bake without spilling.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir without scratching your pans.
- Cheese grater – if you’re shredding your own cheese for the best melt.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version that’s still tasty.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mix for extra veggies and flavor.
- Mix in some cooked bacon or diced ham to give a smoky, hearty twist.
- Try a cheese combo with pepper jack for a mild spicy kick or add fresh basil for brightness.
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta and Meat Sauce:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce or spaghetti sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For The Creamy Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Topping:
- Remaining ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. You’ll spend time cooking pasta, preparing the meat sauce, mixing the creamy cheese sauce, assembling it all, and then baking to bubbly, cheesy perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spaghetti:
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just al dente following the package instructions. Drain the pasta well and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Mix the Creamy Cheese Sauce and Combine:
In a large bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, half of the mozzarella, half of the cheddar, and the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the cooked spaghetti and meat sauce until the pasta is well coated with the cheese mixture.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Transfer the spaghetti mixture evenly into the greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned around the edges.
5. Rest and Serve:
Take the bake out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to firm up a bit. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy Southern spaghetti bake!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures it cooks evenly and browns properly without releasing excess water.
Can I Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to enjoy, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until heated through and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven until hot throughout. Adding a splash of milk while reheating can help maintain creaminess.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese and Sour Cream?
Yes! If you need alternatives, Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can replace cream cheese and sour cream, though the texture might be slightly different. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning as needed.
