Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and basil. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and ricotta cheese until smooth.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International