Creamy Baked No Bacon Spaghetti Recipe
Spaghetti is a timeless comfort food, but sometimes you want to elevate it beyond the basic marinara sauce. This creamy baked no bacon spaghetti recipe is a perfect twist on the classic pasta dish. With a rich and cheesy cream sauce, crispy bacon bits, and a golden-brown baked finish, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe will become a new favorite in your rotation.
In this post, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to making this delicious pasta dish, along with helpful tips, variations, and storage suggestions to make it even easier. If you’re ready to elevate your spaghetti game, keep reading!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked spaghetti recipe is perfect for anyone who loves creamy, cheesy pasta dishes with a hint of savory goodness from crispy bacon. It’s ideal for:
✅ Busy weeknights — It’s quick and easy to prepare.
✅ Family meals — Kids and adults alike will love the creamy texture and cheesy top layer.
✅ Meal prep — Make it ahead of time and store it for an easy meal later.
The combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti. Baking it in the oven adds a crispy, golden-brown topping that takes it to the next level.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make creamy baked no bacon spaghetti:
Pasta and Bacon
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8 ounces spaghetti
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6 slices bacon, chopped
Sauce and Flavorings
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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8 ounces cream cheese, softened
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1 cup milk
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings and Garnish
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
✔️ Large pot (for boiling spaghetti)
✔️ Large skillet (for making the sauce)
✔️ Slotted spoon (for removing bacon)
✔️ Whisk (for combining the sauce)
✔️ Baking dish (for baking the spaghetti)
✔️ Oven (for baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Keep the bacon drippings in the skillet for added flavor.
4. Make the Sauce
Add the olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese. Whisk until melted and smooth. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
5. Assemble the Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Stir in the crispy bacon, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake the Spaghetti
Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, before serving.
Notes and Tips
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Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Cook the spaghetti just until al dente since it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
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Make It Creamier: If you want a richer sauce, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or a splash of heavy cream.
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Bacon Substitutions: If you don’t have bacon on hand, try pancetta or ham for a similar savory flavor.
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Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
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Add Some Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale before baking for added texture and nutrients.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerator:
Store any leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
To freeze, transfer the cooled spaghetti to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
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For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
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For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This baked spaghetti pairs well with:
🍷 A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
🥗 A simple side salad with vinaigrette.
🍞 Garlic bread or focaccia for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Yes! You can omit the bacon entirely or substitute it with mushrooms or sautéed spinach for a vegetarian version.
2. Can I use gluten-free spaghetti?
Absolutely! Gluten-free spaghetti works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
3. What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, fontina, or provolone for a different flavor twist.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the spaghetti mixture in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes, and bake as instructed.
Final Thoughts
This creamy baked no bacon spaghetti is a guaranteed hit with family and friends. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or making a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe will satisfy your pasta cravings.
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