Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Melt the butter in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
Add the garlic to the pan and cook until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic, stirring well to combine. Cook for a couple of minutes.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture starts to thicken.
Add the cream to the pan, bringing the sauce to a boil again while stirring. Season with salt and pepper.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smoothly combined with the sauce.
Boil water in a separate pot, add salt, and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain the pasta and add it to the cheese sauce, mixing well.
Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Spread the sweet red pepper evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the casserole and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 650 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why This Recipe Works
The Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that works because of its harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Rich Sauce: The creamy sauce, made with butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream, provides a comforting and indulgent base for the dish.
Flavorful Additions: The sweet red pepper adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory flavors of garlic and onion.
Cheese Perfection: The combination of Parmesan and cheddar cheese creates a melty, cheesy crust that is both satisfying and delicious.
Noodles and Sauce: The al dente spaghetti is coated in the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti until al dente to maintain its texture.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers! Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Sharing Your Creation
Instagram: Share a photo of your finished casserole on Instagram using the hashtag #CreamyBakedSpaghetti.
Pinterest: Pin your recipe to your favorite Pinterest board.
Friends and Family: Invite friends and family over to enjoy your delicious creation.
Conclusion
The Creamy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, comforting texture, and easy preparation, it is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this classic recipe and experiment with different variations to make it your own.
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