Creamy Baked Spaghetti Alfredo

Creamy Baked Spaghetti Alfredo

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, Creamy Baked Spaghetti Alfredo is a dish that delivers both indulgence and heartwarming satisfaction. Combining tender strands of spaghetti with a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce, crispy bits of bacon, and a cheesy baked topping, this recipe transforms a simple pasta dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience. The baking step not only melds all the flavors together but also creates a lightly golden, irresistible layer of cheese on top. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even as a make-ahead meal, this pasta bake is guaranteed to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

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• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

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• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)

• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (or substitute with cooked chicken or shrimp)

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Toss the cooked spaghetti in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. Stir in the crumbled bacon (or your chosen protein) for added flavor.

4. Assemble the Bake:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the sauced spaghetti to a lightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top.

5. Bake:
   Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

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6. Serve:
   Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Serving Tip:
Pair this creamy baked pasta with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Conclusion
Creamy Baked Spaghetti Alfredo is a rich, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its luscious sauce, tender pasta, and irresistible baked cheese topping, it’s a recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or served at a dinner party, this dish never fails to impress.