Here’s a richer, more detailed version of that ultra-creamy baked spaghetti you showed—super cheesy with that buttery, slightly crispy top:
🍝 Creamy Garlic Butter Baked Spaghetti
🥣 Ingredients (serves 4–6)
Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Topping:
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup Parmesan
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko works best)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
🔥 Instructions
- Cook pasta
Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Make garlic butter base
In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant (don’t brown it). - Create the creamy sauce
Pour in heavy cream and milk. Let it gently simmer for 3–4 minutes. - Add cheese & seasoning
Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. - Combine with pasta
Toss the spaghetti in the sauce until fully coated and creamy. - Assemble
Transfer to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. - Make topping
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over pasta along with extra mozzarella and Parmesan. - Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly. - Broil for finish (optional)
Broil 2–3 minutes for a golden, crispy crust like in the photo. - Rest & serve
Let sit 5 minutes so it sets slightly, then serve warm.
🧀 Pro Tips
- Add cream cheese (2–3 tbsp) for extra richness
- Mix in cooked chicken or shrimp to make it a full meal
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt and flavor
- Don’t overbake or it can dry out—keep it creamy
If you want, I can turn this into a one-pan version, low-calorie version, or add a red sauce twist.