Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by blending the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese in a hand blender until smooth.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the pasta cooks, grease a 9 x 12-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Prepare the veggies: Dice the green bell pepper and onion, and slice the mushrooms.
5. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped peppers, onions, and mushrooms, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes.
6. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set aside. In the same skillet, add the optional ground sirloin, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, then drain any excess fat.
7. Stir in the red pasta sauce and warm it up.
8. In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese mixture you made earlier until well combined.
9. Now it’s time to layer: In the baking dish, add half of the cooked pasta first, followed by the creamy cheese mixture. Spread it evenly.
10. Add the remaining pasta on top, followed by the meat sauce.
11. Cover the dish with foil that has been sprayed with oil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil, sprinkle grated cheese over the top, and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
12. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

To serve Old-School Spaghetti, I recommend garnishing with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to elevate the meal. For those wanting to kick it up a notch, a glass of red wine complements the dish beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers of Old-School Spaghetti can be a lifesaver during busy weeks. To store, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to freeze it for longer, it can last for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven (or microwave) until hot throughout. Remember, always practice safe food handling—don’t leave leftovers out for more than two hours.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Make it Ahead: If you’re prepping for a busy week, assemble the dish ahead of time and pop it in the oven when ready to bake.
• Cheese Play: Feel free to mix different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. A smoked cheese adds a delightful touch!
• Creamy Addition: For extra creaminess, consider mixing in a bit of ricotta cheese to the layers.

Creative Twists

Looking to explore different flavors? Try using different types of pasta sauces like a pesto or white alfredo for a fun variation. Add in some spinach or kale for added nutrition, or even top it off with some crispy pancetta for a gourmet touch. Vegan modifications are also easy—substitute the cheese with nut-based alternatives and use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat.

Your Questions Answered

What’s the prep time and cook time?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of total cooking time.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can skip the meat and load up on more vegetables or even use plant-based meat alternatives.

How can I ensure leftovers stay safe to eat?

Always cool leftovers before sealing them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge and consume within 4 days. If you freeze it, try to eat within 2-3 months for the best quality.

Try this Old-School Spaghetti recipe today and bring a taste of comfort food to your kitchen!

Related posts:

Mac and Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs in Marinara Old-School Spaghetti Parmesan Garlic Bacon Cheeseburger Lasagna Old-School Spaghetti Yummy Chicken Parmesan Pasta