If you’ve spent any time scrolling through TikTok lately, you’ve probably come across the delicious and indulgent TikTok Spaghetti recipe. This dish has taken social media by storm, with foodies and home cooks alike raving about its rich, creamy sauce and easy-to-make instructions. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this pasta dish is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Keep reading to discover how to make TikTok Spaghetti, get tips for perfecting the recipe, and learn how to serve it up for the ultimate wow factor!
What is TikTok Spaghetti?
TikTok Spaghetti is a viral recipe made popular by food creators on TikTok. It’s a twist on traditional spaghetti that combines a deliciously creamy sauce with baked spaghetti, creating a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. The key difference in this recipe is the use of a creamy cheese mixture, which adds richness to the traditional tomato-based spaghetti sauce. The dish often features simple, pantry-staple ingredients, making it an easy go-to meal for busy nights or when you're looking to impress guests with minimal effort.
Ingredients List for TikTok Spaghetti
Before you begin cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients for the TikTok Spaghetti. This will ensure the cooking process goes smoothly and you’re not left scrambling in the middle of the recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound of spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 jar of marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
- 1 pound of ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 block of cream cheese (8 ounces), softened
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredients List for TikTok Spaghetti Sauce
The sauce is the star of this TikTok Spaghetti recipe. It's what sets this dish apart from your regular weeknight pasta. To make the rich, creamy sauce, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 jar of marinara sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
- 1 cup of heavy cream (for an extra creamy touch)
- ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (this makes the sauce ooey-gooey)
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon of butter (for added richness)
This sauce comes together quickly and beautifully, coating the spaghetti in layers of cheesy, creamy goodness.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the great things about TikTok Spaghetti is how customizable it is. You can easily make substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what you have in the pantry. Here are a few ideas:
- Protein alternatives: If you don’t eat beef, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian version. You can also skip the meat altogether and make this a veggie-packed dish by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
- Cheese options: Feel free to swap out the mozzarella for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese for a little kick. You can also replace ricotta with cottage cheese if you're looking for a lower-fat option.
- Pasta variations: While traditional spaghetti is the go-to, you can use other types of pasta like fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. This recipe is versatile enough to work with whatever pasta you prefer.
- Vegan version: To make this dish vegan, swap the cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella for plant-based cheese alternatives, and use a meatless ground beef substitute.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to get started? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this viral TikTok Spaghetti recipe.
- Cook the pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Now, add the ground beef (or your preferred protein) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Add marinara sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the browned beef. Stir in the sugar to balance the flavors, and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- Mix the cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Next, add a layer of the cooked spaghetti, followed by dollops of the cheese mixture, and then another layer of sauce. Repeat until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top.
- Bake the spaghetti: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like a golden-brown crust on top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Garnish and serve: Once the spaghetti is done baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
How to Cook TikTok Spaghetti: A Step-by-Step Guide
For those who prefer a more visual and detailed guide, follow these exact steps for making the ultimate TikTok Spaghetti dish:
- Boil the pasta: Salt the water well and cook the spaghetti until it’s just tender (al dente).
- Brown the meat: Brown ground beef or turkey in a skillet, adding garlic and onions to build flavor.
- Simmer the sauce: Combine the cooked meat with marinara sauce, sugar, and spices.
- Create the cheese mixture: Mix softened cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella for a creamy texture.
- Layer and bake: In a baking dish, layer spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheese mixture, and bake to perfection.
- Garnish and enjoy: Top with fresh parsley or basil and serve with garlic bread for the ultimate meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes people make when preparing TikTok Spaghetti, and how to avoid them:
- Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook when baked.
- Skipping the sugar in the sauce: This may seem unnecessary, but it helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor.
- Not softening the cream cheese: Softening the cream cheese makes it easier to mix with the other cheeses and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Using too much sauce: Adding too much sauce can make the dish soupy. Stick to the recommended amount for the perfect balance.
Serving and Presentation Tips
TikTok Spaghetti is a show-stopping dish, but with a little attention to detail, you can take it to the next level.
How to Serve TikTok Spaghetti
Serve TikTok Spaghetti straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture. Pair it with:
- Garlic bread or breadsticks
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
- A side of roasted vegetables
Presentation Ideas for TikTok Spaghetti
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, basil, or even chives over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve in individual ramekins: For a fancier touch, divide the pasta into small oven-safe dishes before baking.
- Use a cheese pull: When serving, lift the spaghetti with tongs to show off that gooey, melty cheese for the ultimate food-porn moment.
TikTok Spaghetti Recipe Tips
- Prepare ahead of time: You can assemble the dish in advance and bake it when ready, making it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Use high-quality cheese: For the best flavor, opt for freshly grated mozzarella and Parmesan instead of pre-shredded.
- Add veggies: For a healthier twist, layer in sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the TikTok Spaghetti and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Can I freeze TikTok Spaghetti?
Absolutely. You can freeze the assembled dish before baking or freeze leftovers. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.
What can I use instead of ricotta?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute cottage cheese or even mascarpone for a creamier texture.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
TikTok Spaghetti is more than just a viral sensation—it’s a delicious, hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or satisfying your pasta cravings. With its creamy, cheesy layers and rich meat sauce, it’s no wonder this recipe has taken over the internet. Follow the steps, customize it to your liking, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands. Give it a try and see why TikTok can’t stop talking about it!
PrintTiktok Spaghetti Recipe
TikTok Spaghetti, a viral pasta dish, combines spaghetti, marinara sauce, cream cheese, ricotta, mozzarella, and ground beef for an indulgent, cheesy meal. It's a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing recipe that mixes classic spaghetti with a creamy, baked twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti (or other pasta)
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Fresh parsley (optional)
For Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan, sauté onions and garlic until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, then let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix cream cheese, ricotta, and mozzarella until smooth.
- In a separate pot, melt butter, then stir in heavy cream, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until creamy.
- Layer the cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheese mixture in a baking dish. Top with the creamy sauce and sprinkle more cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add extra spices like Italian seasoning for more flavor.
- For a spicy kick, include more red pepper flakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 980mg
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