Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you’re daydreaming of comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, just a bit decadent, and an absolute crowd-pleaser, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. It’s everything you love about classic spaghetti, reimagined with rich cream cheese and a melty, golden topping. Whether you’re feeding a house full of hungry folks or simply want leftovers you’ll actually crave, this casserole brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is in its simplicity—each ingredient pulls its weight for that ideal balance of flavor and texture. We’re using pantry staples, but they combine into something truly memorable.

• Spaghetti (12 oz): Choose your favorite brand; classic long noodles offer that nostalgic fork twirl we all love.
• Lean ground beef (1 lb): Adds hearty, savory depth—if you want to lighten things up, try ground turkey or chicken.
• Spaghetti sauce (1 28 oz jar): Go with a tomato-basil or traditional marinara for the base, or try a garlic-forward sauce for extra flavor.
• Cream cheese (1 8 oz package, softened): This is the magic ingredient! It makes the spaghetti irresistibly creamy and tangy.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced): Fresh is best, but you can substitute with ¼ teaspoon garlic powder in a pinch.
• Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of basil, oregano, and rosemary infuses the dish with classic Italian flavor.
• Garlic salt (a pinch): Enhances all the flavors with just the right salty, garlicky note.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds nutty, salty richness—and it browns beautifully on top.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (½ cup): For that irresistible gooey, melty finish everyone adores.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start off by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Give your 9×13-inch baking pan a light coating of grease; this helps prevent sticking and makes serving the casserole a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a generous pot of lightly salted water to a vigorous boil. Add your spaghetti and cook until it’s tender but still has a pleasant bite—about 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping. Once cooked, drain well and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Beef and Prep the Sauce

While the pasta cooks, place a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your lean ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Sauté until it’s browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Pour off any excess fat, then stir in the spaghetti sauce for that luscious, tomatoey coating.

Step 4: Creamy Spaghetti Magic

Transfer the drained spaghetti into a large bowl. While the noodles are still warm, add softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt. Stir everything together—watch as the cream cheese melts and wraps each noodle in creamy, flavorful goodness.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce across the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Next, pile on that creamy spaghetti, nestling it across the entire surface. Pour the rest of the meaty sauce over the top, making sure every bit is covered.

Step 6: Add the Cheesy Topping

Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella over the entire casserole. These cheeses bake up into a gorgeously golden and bubbly crust that locks in the creamy filling below.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until piping hot and bubbling at the edges. The cheese should be melted and just starting to brown—this is the finishing touch that’ll seal the deal with every forkful.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole with fresh chopped parsley or basil right before serving. A dusting of extra Parmesan or even some red pepper flakes can add a fancy flourish. It’s a simple way to make each plate look (and taste) restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pairing is half the fun! A crisp green salad tossed with a bright vinaigrette balances the creamy richness of the casserole. Warm garlic bread or buttery rolls make the perfect, saucy sidekick to scoop up any leftovers on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Try scooping the casserole into shallow pasta bowls for a bistro-style feel, or serve it family-style straight from the baking dish. For potlucks or parties, cut into tidy squares and garnish each piece for an impressive (and portable) presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole tightly and refrigerate within two hours of baking. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors mellow and mingle, making the next day’s meal even more delicious.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer friendly! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil or in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready for cozy comfort food in a flash, just thaw and reheat.

Reheating

Gently reheat leftovers in a 350 degree F oven until warmed through and bubbly—about 20 minutes if refrigerated, longer if frozen. You can also microwave slices for a quick lunch, but the oven preserves that wonderful cheesy topping.

FAQs

Can I use a meat other than beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage all work beautifully in this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Choose your favorite or mix and match for extra flavor.

Do I have to use jarred spaghetti sauce?

Nope, homemade sauce works great too! If you have a family recipe for marinara or tomato sauce, definitely use it. The goal is a tasty, thick sauce that complements the creamy pasta.

Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to one day before baking. Cover and refrigerate, then when you’re ready, pop it in the oven. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy nights or entertaining.

Is this recipe good for kids?

Kids usually love it—the creamy spaghetti and bubbling cheese make it irresistible. You can even sneak in some finely chopped veggies to the sauce if you want to add a bit of nutrition.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely. Swap the beef for sautéed mushrooms, meatless crumbles, or roasted veggies. The creamy and cheesy base of the casserole makes it satisfying no matter what.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a weeknight staple that’s just as perfect for cozy family dinners as it is for sharing at potlucks, you can’t go wrong with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. It’s easy, rewarding, and downright delicious—give it a try, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a repeat request at your table!

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