Oh my goodness, you have to try this Healthy Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti! It’s my go-to when I’m craving something indulgent but still want to keep things balanced. I came up with this recipe after one too many “oops, I ate the whole pan” moments with regular baked pasta. The whole wheat spaghetti and Greek yogurt make it lighter, while that turkey bacon and melty cheese combo? Absolute magic. Trust me, you won’t miss the guilt—just the incredible flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Healthy Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti
This dish is a total game-changer, and here’s why:
- Quick & easy – Ready in 30 minutes flat, perfect for busy weeknights
- Surprisingly balanced – Whole wheat pasta and Greek yogurt keep it light without skimping on creaminess
- Protein-packed – Between the turkey bacon and cheeses, it’ll keep you full for hours
- Flavor bomb – Smoky, cheesy, garlicky goodness in every bite (yes, it tastes as good as it sounds!)
Honestly, this healthy bacon cream cheese baked spaghetti is the kind of meal that makes you forget you’re eating something better for you. Total win!
Ingredients for Healthy Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dreamy dish:
- 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti (trust me, the nutty flavor works perfectly here)
- 4 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened (this is our creamy base)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (my secret for extra tang and protein)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (because everything’s better with melty cheese)
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 clove garlic, minced (fresh is best!)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper and 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for that bright finish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (the salty sprinkle that makes it sing)
Ingredient Substitutions & Notes
- Pasta: Gluten-free spaghetti works great if needed – just watch the cook time
- Bacon: Vegetarian bacon or mushrooms make tasty meat-free swaps
- Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess while keeping it light – don’t skip it!
- Cream cheese: Full-fat works if you’re feeling indulgent
How to Make Healthy Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti
Okay, let’s get cooking! This comes together so fast, you’ll be eating before you know it. Here’s my foolproof method:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) – do this first so it’s ready when you are!
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, but stop 1 minute shy of al dente (it’ll keep cooking in the oven later). Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, mix your creamy sauce: In a large bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, pepper, and salt until smooth. This is where the magic starts!
- Toss, toss, toss! Add the cooked spaghetti to your sauce bowl and gently mix until every strand is lovingly coated. Don’t be shy – get in there with your hands if needed!
- Layer it up: Transfer the saucy noodles to a baking dish, then shower with mozzarella, crispy bacon bits, and Parmesan. More cheese = more happiness.
- Bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden in spots. You’ll know it’s ready when your whole kitchen smells incredible.
- Finish it fresh: Sprinkle with chopped parsley right before serving for that perfect pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Baked Spaghetti
- Undercook the pasta slightly – it’ll soak up sauce and finish cooking in the oven
- Mix the sauce well before adding noodles to prevent clumps
- Let it rest 5 minutes after baking for cleaner slices
Serving Suggestions for Healthy Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti
This baked spaghetti shines all on its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies to round out the meal. My go-to? A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette—the peppery greens cut right through the richness. Or try roasted broccoli with garlic for extra veggie power. Either way, you’re in for one satisfying plate!
Storing and Reheating
This healthy baked spaghetti keeps beautifully! Just pop leftovers in an airtight container and they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a tiny splash of water to keep the noodles from drying out – trust me, it makes all the difference. If you’re feeling fancy, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave followed by a quick stir does wonders for bringing back that creamy texture.
Nutritional Information
Just so you know, these estimates can vary depending on your exact ingredients – but here’s the scoop on what you’re getting in each delicious serving of this healthy bacon cream cheese baked spaghetti:
- 320 calories (way better than traditional baked pasta!)
- 18g protein thanks to all that turkey bacon and cheese
- 5g fiber from the whole wheat spaghetti – your tummy will thank you
- 12g fat (only 6g saturated) – creamy without being crazy heavy
Not too shabby for something that tastes this indulgent, right? The Greek yogurt and whole grains really make this dish shine nutritionally!
FAQs About Healthy Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Absolutely! Regular bacon works great—just drain excess grease before crumbling. You’ll get extra smokiness, though the calories will be higher. I sometimes do this for special occasions!
How do I make this gluten-free?
Super easy—swap the whole wheat spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just check that it’s al dente before baking, since GF noodles can get mushy faster. My go-to is brown rice spaghetti.
Can I freeze leftovers?
You bet! Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat with a splash of water to revive the creamy texture. The noodles soften a bit, but still taste delicious.
30-Minute Healthy Bacon Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious baked spaghetti dish combining creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
- 4 oz cream cheese (low-fat)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, Greek yogurt, garlic, black pepper, and salt.
- Toss cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with mozzarella, bacon, and Parmesan.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese melts and turns golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
- Substitute turkey bacon with vegetarian bacon for a meat-free option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American