Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

• •1 package Spaghetti noodles (16 oz)
• •2 lb Ground beef (lean, such as 80/20)
• •2 jars Marinara sauce (approx. 24 oz each)
• •2 jars Canned mushrooms (8 oz each, drained)
• •0.5 block Cream cheese (4 oz, softened)
• •1.5 cup Mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)
• •0.5 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• •3 tbsp Butter
• •0.5 piece Onion (medium, diced)
• •to taste tsp Onion powder
• •to taste tsp Garlic powder
• •to taste tsp Salt
• •to taste tsp Black pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

2. 2

   In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to package directions until tender but still firm (al dente). Drain the noodles well and let them cool slightly. Once cooled, transfer to a large mixing bowl and add 1 jar of marinara sauce, the 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 3 tablespoons of butter. Mix thoroughly until the noodles are evenly coated.

3. 3

   Pour the seasoned noodles into a 9x13 inch baking pan, spreading them evenly. Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil and set aside.

4. 4

   While the noodles cook, dice the onion. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the diced onion and ground beef. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess grease.

5. 5

   Once the beef is browned and drained, season it generously with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the second jar of marinara sauce, the drained canned mushrooms, and the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy sauce.

6. 6

   Turn the heat down to low. Add 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese to the beef and sauce mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully combined.

7. 7

   Remove the foil from the baking pan with the noodles. Spoon the hot beef and sauce mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover completely. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.

8. 8

   Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Chef's Tips

• 💡Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the sauce for a smoother, lump-free mixture.
• 💡For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of dried oregano or Italian seasoning to the beef mixture.
• 💡Don't overcook your spaghetti in step 2, as it will continue to cook in the oven and you want it to retain a good texture.