When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy, cheesy, and hearty flavors of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. This casserole-style dish is a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home. Combining tender spaghetti, a rich cream cheese mixture, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, this recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this indulgent dish, explore variations to suit different tastes, and highlight tips to perfect your baked spaghetti casserole. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate pasta bake that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Creamy and Cheesy Goodness: The addition of cream cheese and sour cream gives this dish a rich and velvety texture.
Easy to Make: With simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this recipe comes together with minimal effort.
Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults love the comforting flavors of baked spaghetti.
Great for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences, whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or looking to add extra veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients required to make this creamy baked spaghetti masterpiece:
For the Pasta:
1 lb (450g) spaghetti: The star of the dish! Cook until al dente for the perfect texture.
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds a savory, meaty base to the sauce.
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make it from scratch for more flavor.
Salt and pepper: To season the meat sauce.
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: The key to a creamy, rich pasta base.
1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For added depth and cheesy flavor.
1 tsp garlic powder: A hint of garlic for flavor.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings all the flavors together.
For Topping:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates a bubbly, golden topping when baked.
Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef or Italian sausage.
Drain any excess grease and stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Toss the Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss until the noodles are evenly coated.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the cream cheese-coated spaghetti into the prepared baking dish.
Layer half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti.
Repeat with the remaining spaghetti and meat sauce.
Step 7: Add the Mozzarella Topping
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the baked spaghetti cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the spaghetti ensures it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce makes all the difference in flavor. Opt for one with natural ingredients or make your own.
Soften the Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for easy mixing.
Customize the Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Version:
Skip the meat and use a vegetable-based marinara sauce. Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for texture.
Gluten-Free Option:
Swap regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
Spicy Kick:
Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for a heat-packed variation.
Cheesy Upgrade:
Mix in shredded cheddar or gouda for a richer cheese flavor.
Why Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Is a Crowd-Pleaser
This dish is more than just a pasta bake—it’s a comforting, creamy, and cheesy creation that satisfies every craving. The layers of tangy cream cheese, savory meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella make every bite unforgettable. It’s a perfect dish for busy nights, meal prepping, or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and bake as directed.
2. Can I Freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?
Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
3. What Can I Serve With It?
Pair this dish with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
4. How Long Does It Last in the Fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing meals ahead of time, this casserole delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Make this recipe today and enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your household. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection—this pasta bake is comfort food at its finest!
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