Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is the kind of dish that brings all the comfort and warmth you want on a cozy night. It’s loaded with tender spaghetti noodles, a rich and creamy sauce, and layers of melted cheese that pull apart in the best way. You’ll also find a hint of Southern charm in the seasoning that makes this bake extra special and full of flavor.
I love making this dish when I need something that feels like a big, warm hug from the inside. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to put together but still feels like you went the extra mile. Plus, it’s perfect for using up any cheese you have in the fridge because you can never have too much gooey, melty cheese in a bake like this.
My favorite way to enjoy the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is right after it comes out of the oven, when it’s bubbly and golden on top. I like to pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness, but honestly, it’s just as good on its own. This dish always ends up bringing everyone to the table with happy smiles and full plates!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti works well here, but you can swap with any long pasta like linguine or fettuccine. Just cook until al dente to keep the perfect bite.
Ground Beef: I usually use ground beef for its hearty flavor. For a lighter or vegetarian version, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work great.
Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These give the dish its creamy Southern charm. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier twist or use reduced-fat cream cheese to lighten it up.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor and meltiness. If cheddar isn’t available, Monterey Jack or Colby cheese make tasty alternatives.
Diced Tomatoes & Spices: Tomatoes add a fresh note. I like using canned diced tomatoes for convenience, but fresh works well too. The paprika and chili powder add a subtle smoky warmth—feel free to adjust or swap with smoked paprika for more depth.
How Do You Get the Sauce Creamy and Well-Mixed Without Clumps?
To make the sauce perfectly creamy:
- Cook the beef with onions and spices first, then reduce heat before adding cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Low heat helps these soften smoothly.
- Stir continuously as the cheeses melt. This avoids lumps and gives the sauce a nice velvety texture.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more milk to loosen it up.
- When combining with pasta, be gentle but thorough so every strand is coated. This way, the bake stays creamy inside without drying out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the spaghetti; make sure it’s big enough so the pasta cooks evenly.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the beef mixture without scratching your pan.
- 9×13 inch baking dish – holds the casserole nicely and helps the cheese melt evenly on top.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your spices and dairy just right for that creamy sauce.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version with less fat.
- Add chopped bell peppers or spinach to the beef mixture to sneak in some veggies and extra color.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a little spicy kick that warms up the dish.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor that adds a great crunch on top.
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Meat:
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
Vegetables & Flavorings:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Dairy & Creamy Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup milk
Other:
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooking oil or butter for sautéing
How Much Time Will You Need?
The whole process takes about 40-50 minutes. You’ll spend about 15 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta and beef mixture, then assembling the bake, and finally baking it in the oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest a few minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Oven and Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish so the casserole won’t stick. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat and Veggies:
Heat a tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir constantly until all the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and gently toss so the noodles are well coated with the creamy meat sauce.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the spaghetti mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a lightly golden surface.
7. Rest and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and ensures safe cooking throughout.
Can I Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to step 8 and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to keep the creamy texture intact.
What Can I Serve with This Spaghetti Bake?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance its rich, creamy flavors. Garlic bread is also a tasty side for soaking up any extra sauce!