Easy Creamy Alfredo Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Oh, if you’ve been craving something that hits all the cozy comfort food notes, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Easy Creamy Alfredo Spaghetti Bake Recipe. It’s like the ultimate pasta hug — creamy, cheesy, and baked to bubbling perfection. When I first tried this, I couldn’t believe how the classic flavors come together in a bake that’s so simple, yet fancy enough to impress everyone at the dinner table. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through exactly how to make this fan-freaking-tastic dish your new weeknight hero.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

When I gather ingredients for this Easy Creamy Alfredo Spaghetti Bake Recipe, I love how they work in harmony — from the tender spaghetti to the buttery garlic alfredo, and a zesty meat sauce. Grab quality parmesan if you can, it really amps up the flavor, and fresh garlic makes a world of difference in the sauce.

• Spaghetti noodles: Cook them al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
• Ground beef: Look for 80/20 for juicy, flavorful meat sauce.
• Onion: Finely diced to blend seamlessly into the sauce texture.
• Green bell pepper: Adds a mild sweetness and some veggie crunch to the meat mix.
• Cajun seasoning: Brings subtle warmth and depth without overpowering.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Pantry staples that layer great flavor alongside fresh garlic.
• Dried Italian seasoning: The secret herb mix that ties the sauce flavors together.
• Marinara sauce: A jar of your favorite kind works, but homemade if you’re feeling fancy.
• Unsalted butter: For a creamy, rich base to the alfredo sauce.
• Fresh garlic cloves: Minced for that aromatic punch in the alfredo.
• Heavy cream: The heart of that creamy texture you’ll love.
• Parmesan cheese: Shredded for melting smoothly in the sauce and sprinkled on top.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Season to taste, but don’t be shy — this is comfort food!
• Mozzarella cheese: A bubbly, stretchy topping that your family will devour.
• Dried parsley flakes (optional): For a fresh pop of color and subtle herbal notes at the end.

Variations

I’m all about customizing this Easy Creamy Alfredo Spaghetti Bake Recipe to keep things interesting or suit whatever you have on hand. From swapping the meat to going veggie, it’s super flexible.

• Variation: I once subbed ground turkey for the beef to lighten things up, and it was a hit — still perfectly creamy and flavorful.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie-packed twist that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce if you like a little heat — it balances the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Cheese overload: Feeling indulgent? Stir in some shredded fontina or gouda with the mozzarella for extra cheesiness.

How to Make Easy Creamy Alfredo Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook pasta and prepare baking dish

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking later. Then, boil up that spaghetti until it’s just al dente — firm to the bite – because it’ll cook a bit more in the oven. Overcooked spaghetti means mushy bake, no one wants that!

Step 2: Build your flavorful meat sauce

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, toss in the ground beef, finely diced onion, and green bell pepper. Sprinkle on your Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs. I love breaking the meat up into small crumbles so it cooks evenly. Cook it about 10 minutes until the beef is browned and veggies are soft. Don’t rush; those softened veggies really add depth.

Don’t forget to drain the excess grease — your sauce will thank you for not being greasy! Then, stir in the marinara sauce and turn the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring now and then so it thickens just right.

Step 3: Whip up the luscious alfredo sauce

While your meat sauce simmers, melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it smells irresistible — seriously, this step will fill your kitchen with the best aroma. Pour in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until your cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. You’ll want it creamy but pourable.

Step 4: Combine pasta and sauce, then assemble

Tip your cooked spaghetti straight into the alfredo sauce, and stir gently until every strand is luxuriously coated. Then pour this creamy combo into your prepared baking dish. Top it evenly with your rich meat sauce — this layering is what makes this bake so fun and flavorful.

Step 5: Cheese it up and bake

Generously sprinkle the mozzarella and a bit more parmesan cheese over the top. Now, pop it uncovered into your preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the cheese melts into that perfect golden melty goodness. If you want a little extra sparkle, add the dried parsley flakes right before serving. They add such a lovely fresh look!

How to Serve Easy Creamy Alfredo Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Garnishes

I personally love sprinkling dried parsley flakes on top just before serving — it adds a tiny pop of green and a subtle herb flavor that feels fresh. Sometimes, I’ll add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil for a little extra finesse if we’re having guests.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad or some roasted garlic green beans to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling indulgent, garlic bread on the side is always a winner — seriously, can’t go wrong there!

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve served this in individual ramekins for a fun date night twist, and everyone loved having their own cheesy portion. For holiday dinners, topping with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated parmesan right out of the oven makes it look extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers? Yes, please! I store them in an airtight container in the fridge and they keep wonderfully for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers often taste even better!

Freezing

This bake freezes surprisingly well — just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping tightly with foil or plastic wrap. I label it and use it up within 2 months for the best taste. When I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, it comes back creamy and delicious.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through—adding a splash of milk or cream when reheating helps keep the sauce silky and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Alfredo Spaghetti Bake Recipe has become a staple in my home for its unbeatable combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors all in one comforting bake. It’s one of those dishes that makes everyone ask for seconds — and trust me, it’s worth every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself craving a pasta fix, give this recipe a try. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together and the warm, happy vibes it brings to the table.

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