Old-school Spaghetti

Cooking method

In a medium mixing bowl, blend cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until the mixture is smooth.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook according to the package instructions.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the pasta cooks, lightly grease a 9 x 12 inch baking dish with butter.
Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté diced green pepper, onion, and sliced mushrooms over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until they’re softened.
Drain the cooked pasta, and set it aside.
Add the chopped and crumbled sirloin (or your choice of ground meat) to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the jar of red pasta sauce, and gently reheat the mixture.
In the greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta first. Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over this layer, then add the remaining pasta and pour the meat sauce on top.
Cover the dish with foil (spray the foil with oil to avoid sticking) and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the grated cheese on top, and return the dish to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving old-school spaghetti, the options are endless. Consider a light side salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance out the richness. Garlic bread is always a classic pairing to scoop up any leftover sauce. For beverages, a crisp white wine or a light red can enhance the flavors beautifully.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Storing any leftovers? Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can easily be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you’re considering freezing portions, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in freezer-safe containers to help retain freshness.

Helpful cooking tips

To achieve the best results:

Be mindful not to overcook the pasta; it should be slightly underdone since it will continue cooking in the oven.
If you’re not a fan of sour cream, consider substituting Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor with added protein.
For added flair, sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving—this not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color.

Creative twists

Looking to mix it up? Consider these variations:

Swap out the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative to suit different dietary preferences.
Experiment with different vegetable combinations, like adding zucchini or spinach, for an extra nutrient boost.
For a spicy kick, stir in some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the meat sauce.

Common questions

Q: How long does it take to prepare this dish?
A: Preparation can take around 30 minutes, with an additional baking time of about 30-35 minutes.

Q: Can I use store-bought sauce?
A: Absolutely! A good quality store-bought sauce can save time without sacrificing flavor.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.