If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying baked pasta dish, then this Turkey Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is the perfect recipe for you! It’s an indulgent yet easy-to-make meal, packed with rich flavors from cream cheese, mozzarella, and crispy turkey bacon. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is bound to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a short cooking time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Incredibly Creamy: The combination of Philadelphia Whipped Chive cream cheese and condensed cream of bacon soup creates a rich and velvety sauce.
- Packed with Flavor: Garlic, onion, and turkey bacon add depth to every bite.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
- Kid-Friendly: A comforting, cheesy meal that even picky eaters will love.
Ingredients Needed
For the Spaghetti:
- 4 cups milk
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of bacon soup
- 7.5 oz Philadelphia Whipped Chive cream cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup real turkey bacon bits
For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- ½ cup real turkey bacon bits
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board (for chopping chives)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
In a large pot over medium heat, combine the milk, condensed cream of bacon soup, whipped chive cream cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until everything is fully combined and the sauce reaches a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Pasta
Once the liquid is boiling, break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add Cheese and Turkey Bacon
Stir in 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of turkey bacon bits. Mix well until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the spaghetti mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, chopped chives, and turkey bacon bits on top.
7. Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 14-15 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden around the edges.
8. Let it Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut into portions.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Swap the Protein: Instead of turkey bacon, try regular bacon, cooked chicken, or even Italian sausage.
- Use a Different Cheese: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure that all ingredients are gluten-free.
- Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can add extra nutrients and texture.
Food and Drink Pairings
Side Dishes
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the creamy sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A refreshing salad with balsamic dressing balances out the richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli work well alongside this pasta.
Drink Pairings
- White Wine: A crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Lemon Iced Tea: A refreshing non-alcoholic option to cut through the richness.
- Sparkling Water with Lemon: A light and refreshing choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well in this recipe.
What can I use instead of cream of bacon soup?
You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup if needed.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the creamy cheese and turkey bacon flavors. You can also reduce the seasoning if needed.
How do I make this dish lighter?
Use low-fat cheese, skim milk, and light cream cheese to reduce calories while maintaining flavor.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
This Turkey Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or prepping for the week, this dish delivers on both flavor and convenience. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! If you loved this dish, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious and easy recipes.
Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
