Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is that perfect comfort food that brings together tender spaghetti, rich creamy sauce, and a good sprinkle of cheese all baked into a warm, bubbly dish. It’s got that nice southern twist with flavors that feel like a big, cozy hug from the kitchen.
I love making this bake when I want something that feels hearty but still easy to put together. The creamy sauce melts into the pasta, and the cheesy top gets those little golden spots that make everyone around the table smile before the first bite even happens. It’s one of those meals where I find myself coming back for just one more forkful—and then another.
This dish works great for family dinners or potlucks since it’s filling and easy to share. I sometimes add a side of fresh green veggies or a crisp salad to balance the creaminess. It’s the kind of meal that sticks with you, the kind you remember and want to make again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Use regular spaghetti or whole wheat for a healthier option. If you’re short on time, no-boil pasta can work, but adjust sauce liquid accordingly.
Ground Meat: Ground beef adds rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter dish. For extra zest, try spicy sausage.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce smooth and creamy. Half-and-half lightens it up, or use cream cheese for a thicker texture. Coconut milk can be a dairy-free swap.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives stretchiness, cheddar adds sharpness, and Parmesan boosts flavor. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or a mild provolone.
Paprika & Red Pepper Flakes: These bring subtle warmth and color. Smoked paprika adds depth, and adjusting pepper flakes controls the heat.
How Do I Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right Without It Splitting?
To keep the sauce smooth and creamy, follow these tips:
- Cook the meat and onions first, then add the sauce to combine flavors well.
- Lower the heat before stirring in the heavy cream. High heat can cause cream to curdle.
- Stir gently but thoroughly to mix cream with tomato sauce for an even texture.
- If it looks too thick, add a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen it up.
Taking these steps ensures a velvety sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti deliciously.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling spaghetti; make sure it’s big enough to avoid sticking.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning meat and sautéing onions and garlic in one pan.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough for layering and baking the spaghetti bake evenly.
- Colander – to drain the cooked spaghetti easily without losing any noodles.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring sauces and tossing pasta gently.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef with spicy Italian sausage for a little extra kick and depth.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for some veggies and texture.
- Mix in shredded smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a smoky or spicy twist.
- Stir in cooked crumbled bacon or pancetta for added savory richness when you want a treat.
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground pork or sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare, 25 minutes to cook in the oven, and roughly 10 minutes for boiling and mixing. Altogether, plan for about 50 minutes from start to finish—quick enough for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside, so it’s ready when your pasta mixture is done.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente, following the time suggested on the package. Drain well and set aside.
3. Brown the Meat and Sauté Aromatics:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until fully browned. If there’s extra fat, drain it off.
4. Add Seasoning and Sauce:
Mix in paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and pepper. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir everything together. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Stir in the Cream:
Turn the heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir well until the sauce looks creamy and smooth. Warm it through but do not boil.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything carefully to coat all the noodles with the creamy sauce and meat mixture.
7. Layer and Assemble:
Move half of the spaghetti mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over it. Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top, then cover with the rest of the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese on top melts, bubbles, and starts to turn golden brown.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, then enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with family or friends!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it first. Thaw frozen ground meat overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. This helps cook it evenly and safely.
Can I Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if reheating from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover spaghetti bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in shorter intervals to avoid drying out.
What Can I Serve with This Spaghetti Bake?
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a simple dinner roll also make great accompaniments to soak up any extra sauce.
