Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting, cheesy casserole that’s packed with tender spaghetti noodles, rich cream sauce, and a little bit of a Southern twist. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, with gooey melted cheese on top and a creamy, hearty base underneath.
I love making this bake because it’s simple to throw together but always feels special. The creaminess mixed with the familiar flavors of spaghetti makes it a family favorite around here. Plus, it’s great for busy nights since you can prepare it ahead and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a fresh green salad on the side or some crispy garlic bread to scoop up every last bit of that creamy sauce. It’s perfect for casual dinners or sharing with friends, and somehow it always brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Whenever I make this, it reminds me of cozy Southern kitchens where comfort food means everything. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up inside and makes leftovers taste just as good the next day, if there are any!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Using regular spaghetti works well, but you can swap in whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if needed. Just cook it al dente to avoid mushiness in the bake.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground beef adds rich flavor, but lean ground turkey is a lighter swap. For a vegetarian option, try cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles instead.
Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Heavy cream makes the sauce extra creamy. Half-and-half is a lighter choice with less fat but still smooth. You can use evaporated milk for a lower-fat alternative but avoid skim milk as it may curdle.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and cheddar melt beautifully together, creating that gooey topping. Parmesan adds a nice sharp note. Feel free to mix in pepper jack for a little kick or use vegan cheese if dairy-free.
Marinara Sauce: Ready-made marinara keeps things simple. If unavailable, tomato sauce with added herbs works fine. Homemade sauce is great, too, especially if you want to control sweetness and spices.
How Do I Make Sure the Cheese Melts Perfectly and Doesn’t Get Dry?
Melting cheese just right is key for creamy Southern spaghetti bake. Avoid overcooking the bake to keep it moist and gooey.
- Preheat oven so it’s ready at the right temperature (350°F/175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes; this melts the cheese and keeps it bubbly.
- Don’t overbake, or the cheese can dry out and get tough.
- Let the dish rest 5 minutes after baking—this helps the cheese set and makes it easier to serve without breaking apart.
- If it looks too dry halfway through, you can loosely cover with foil to trap moisture.
- Use a mix of cheeses (mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for flavor) – this combination melts nicely without getting oily.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the spaghetti evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the meat and sautéing onions and garlic.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring the meat sauce without scratching your pan.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough to layer the spaghetti and cheese for baking.
- Colander – to drain pasta quickly and easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts, especially spices and cream.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for spicy sausage to add a bold, peppery flavor you’ll love.
- Stir in sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and texture.
- Use smoked gouda or Monterey Jack cheese for a creamier melt with a mild smoky note.
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat in your creamy bake.
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 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
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
Expect about 15 minutes for preparing the ingredients and cooking the spaghetti and sauce, plus 20-25 minutes baking time in the oven. Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving, so the flavors settle. Total time is around 40-45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Cook Spaghetti:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil the spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s just tender but still firm (al dente). Drain well and set aside.
2. Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Add Cream and Combine:
Pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half and stir everything together well. Warm through, but don’t let it boil. Then add the cooked spaghetti, tossing gently to coat all the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce.
4. Layer and Bake:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Spoon half of the spaghetti mixture into the dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses on top. Then layer the remaining spaghetti and top with the rest of the cheeses.
Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
5. Finish and Serve:
Take the bake out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the dish set so it’s easier to serve. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if you like a fresh, herbal touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat in This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the meat in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking frozen meat directly can result in uneven cooking and a watery sauce.
Can I Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate 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 fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce seems too thick.
What Can I Serve With This Spaghetti Bake?
This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables also make a great, light side for a balanced meal.
