Recipes by Brad, Simple Recipes anyone can make

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

The success of the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake relies on carefully selected ingredients. Each component adds flavor and texture to the final dish. Below are the core ingredients with their precise measurements and explanations.

Spaghetti – 12 ounces

Use regular or whole wheat spaghetti for this recipe. Cooking it al dente ensures the pasta holds up well during baking without becoming mushy.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups

Sharp cheddar offers a bold flavor and melts smoothly into the creamy sauce, giving the bake its signature cheesy richness.

Cream Cheese – 8 ounces

Cream cheese creates a velvety texture in the sauce while balancing out spicy or smoky southern seasonings.

Milk – 1 cup

Whole milk works best to maintain creaminess but low-fat milk can be substituted for a lighter version.

Cooked Andouille Sausage – 1 cup (sliced)

This smoked sausage adds authentic southern flavor with a bit of spice and smokiness that complements the creamy base.

Diced Green Bell Peppers – ½ cup

Fresh green peppers provide subtle sweetness and crunch, balancing the richness of cheese and sausage.

Diced Onion – ½ cup

Onions bring natural sweetness and depth when sautéed until soft before mixing into the bake.

Minced Garlic – 2 cloves

Garlic enhances overall flavor with its warm, aromatic notes essential in southern cooking.

Paprika – 1 teaspoon

Paprika provides mild smoky warmth that enriches the casserole’s taste without overpowering other spices.

Cayenne Pepper – ¼ teaspoon (optional)

For those who like heat, cayenne adds just enough kick to brighten up the creamy sauce subtly.

Salt and Black Pepper – To taste

Simplicity here lets all flavors shine through; adjust seasoning as needed before baking.

Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon

Used for sautéing vegetables, it adds smoothness without altering flavors.

Ingredient close-up

# Instructions:

This detailed guide will help you prepare a flavorful Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake from start to finish.

Step 1: Cook Spaghetti Until Al Dente

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—firm but cooked through. Drain well and set aside. Cooking pasta properly is crucial so it does not become mushy during baking.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent, about 5 minutes. Add sliced Andouille sausage last and cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through. This step builds rich southern flavors foundational to the dish.

Step 3: Prepare Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan over low heat, combine cream cheese and milk. Stir continuously until cream cheese fully melts into milk forming a smooth sauce. Season with paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend spices evenly throughout the sauce base.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce and Sausage Mixture

Transfer cooked spaghetti into a large mixing bowl. Pour warm creamy cheese sauce over pasta then add sautéed vegetables and sausage mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly so every strand of spaghetti is coated evenly with sauce along with flavorful ingredients.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish and Top With Cheese

Lightly grease a casserole dish with butter or oil. Pour combined spaghetti mixture into the prepared dish spreading evenly. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheddar cheese generously on top to create a golden cheesy crust when baked.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden Brown

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place assembled casserole inside oven on middle rack. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbling hot throughout with cheese browned on top. Remove carefully using oven mitts once ready.

Step 7: Let Rest Before Serving

Allow casserole to cool at room temperature for about five minutes after removing from oven. This helps set layers slightly making portions easier to serve while keeping creamy texture intact.