Ingredients:

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 12 oz spaghetti pasta
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles.
  2. Stir in the diced onion and garlic; sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  3. Pour in the marinara sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer on low for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Boil spaghetti in salted water, draining them 2 minutes before they are fully tender to ensure they remain al dente.
  6. In a small bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese, ricotta, parmesan, and garlic powder until smooth.
  7. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by the entire cream cheese mixture, and then the remaining spaghetti.
  9. Top with the remaining meat sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
  10. Place the dish on the top third of the oven rack and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and edges are caramelized.
  11. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.