Alfredo Spaghetti Bake
Preparation Time: 15 mins
Cooking Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Introduction
Alfredo Spaghetti Bake is a delicious blend of creamy Alfredo sauce mixed with al dente spaghetti, now that’s what comfort food is all about. It’s rich, creamy, savoury, and very satisfying.
Why make this recipe
If you are a lover of pasta and cheese and are looking for a warm, cozy dish on a chilly evening, this recipe is certainly for you. What makes it even better is that this recipe is incredibly simple to make, coming together in just a matter of time with minimum effort.
How to make Alfredo spaghetti bake
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, then set it aside.
3. Cook the spaghetti as per the directions on the package; once done, drain well.
4. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté, yield to about 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Pour the heavy cream into the saucepan and reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is silky smooth.
6. Add salt and black pepper to the Alfredo sauce, and then add the cooked spaghetti. Stir well until the spaghetti is completely coated in the sauce.
7. Empty the spaghetti and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly on the surface.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously on top of the spaghetti.
9. Allow it bake inside the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is all bubbly and golden brown.
10. Optional: Garnish the top of your Alfredo Spaghetti Bake with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while still warm.
How to serve Alfredo spaghetti bake
This dish is best served warm and fresh from the oven. Therefore, prepare this when there are people to enjoy it right away. Alfredo Spaghetti Bake can be perfectly paired with a crisp green salad or tender grilled chicken for a wholesome meal.
How to store Alfredo spaghetti bake
While this dish is best when fresh, leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-proof dish and bake at 350 degrees until thoroughly heated.
Tips to make Alfredo spaghetti bake
To give your Alfredo Spaghetti Bake some extra flavor, try adding cooked diced chicken, crumbled bacon, or sautéed mushrooms to the mix.
Variations (if any)
This dish is extremely versatile and can be modified to suit your taste. Feel free to add vegetables of your choice, cooked chicken or even shrimp. If you want to go for a vegetarian route, replace the parmesan with vegetarian-friendly cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can. Ensure that you cook it as per the instructions on the package.
2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Alfredo Spaghetti Bake in advance and store it in the fridge. However, keep the baking step for when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze my Alfredo Spaghetti Bake?
While this dish can be frozen, the pasta might become a bit mushy upon thawing and reheating. Also, the cream sauce may separate after being frozen. It’s recommended to consume it fresh. If you have to freeze it, do so without the final cheese and bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve.