If there’s one dish that manages to bring everyone running to the dinner table, it’s this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. Imagine a bubbly pasta bake that layers creamy, dreamy cheese-coated spaghetti with a savory, hearty meat sauce, all capped with a golden crown of melted mozzarella. Each bite is pure comfort, melding classic Italian-American flavors with an irresistibly rich, velvety texture that turns even the simplest weeknight meal into something unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking to wow a hungry crowd, this casserole is a must-try winner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
All of the ingredients for this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe are easy to find, making it a practical choice for any busy cook. Each brings something essential to the casserole, from bold flavor to beautiful melt or the signature creamy tang that sets this bake apart.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The sturdy backbone of the casserole, holding all the cheesy goodness together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds flavor and helps brown the beef perfectly without sticking.
- 1 pound ground beef: Brings savory depth and transforms the sauce into a filling meal.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce: Saves prep time and offers an instant boost of tomato-rich flavor; pick your favorite variety.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Kicks everything up with gentle aromatics and warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances every layer with subtle sweetness and depth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Brightens the flavors while letting the cheese and sauce shine through.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The secret weapon for ultra-creamy, luscious spaghetti layers.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds a hint of tang and helps create that silky sauce you’ll love.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Packs in umami and adds savory richness throughout the casserole.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures that melty, gooey top layer that makes everyone swoon.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Lends a pop of color and a fresh note to finish things off perfectly.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pasta
Set your oven for 350°F and let it warm up while you work. Boil the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions, aiming for that magical “al dente” texture—soft but still pleasantly chewy. Drain them well and set aside; don’t worry, they’ll be smothered in cheesy goodness soon!
Step 2: Brown and Flavor the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Toss in the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula as it cooks, browning it thoroughly without burning. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from getting oily. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just a bit.
Step 3: Mix Up the Creamy Base
In a big mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. The cream cheese should be supple so this comes together smoothly—no lumps allowed! This mixture will cling to every strand of spaghetti, making your casserole ultra-luxurious.
Step 4: Coat the Spaghetti
Gently toss the drained spaghetti into your creamy cheese mixture until every noodle is thickly coated. This is where the magic happens—the flavors combine and the spaghetti takes on that signature richness unique to the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Spread half the meat sauce into a 9×13-inch baking dish, covering the bottom as evenly as you can. Carefully pour your cream cheese spaghetti mixture on top and spread it out. Spoon the rest of the meat sauce over the spaghetti, then shower the whole thing with shredded mozzarella. This layering locks in moisture and flavor and guarantees every serving is perfect.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Place your casserole in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. When the top is bubbling and golden—as good as any pizzeria pie—it’s ready! Let it sit for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Slice and serve while it’s still warm and gooey.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A scattering of freshly chopped parsley not only makes this casserole pop with color, it adds a lovely freshness that cuts through the rich cheese and sauce. If you’re in the mood, a little extra sprinkle of Parmesan or some red pepper flakes for heat also tastes fantastic on top.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. Don’t forget the garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls—perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce. If you’re hosting, roasted vegetables or steamed green beans add color and balance to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
You can bake this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a cute, personal serving that feels extra special. Or, assemble everything the day before, chill, and bake right before guests arrive so you have plenty of time to set the table and relax. The bright, cheesy layers look stunning when served in big generous slices—just don’t forget the parsley!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Good news for busy cooks—this casserole holds up great in the fridge! Cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or use an airtight container. The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
If you want to make this casserole even more convenient, freeze any extra portions for later. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly—either as a whole dish or in individual servings—and store for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready for another cheesy pasta night.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, about 15-20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, pop an individual slice in the microwave for a quick, comforting lunch. Add a fresh sprinkle of parsley or more cheese to perk it up!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Mozzarella gives you those iconic melty strands, but adding provolone, fontina, or even sharp cheddar can give your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe a whole new twist. Mix and match until you find your family’s favorite combination.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based crumbles or chopped, sautéed mushrooms. The rest of the savory, cheesy elements remain unchanged and just as hearty.
Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate several hours or up to a day ahead. Bake it off when needed, adding just a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if you’re starting from cold.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese for easy mixing?
Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting, or microwave it in 10-second bursts until soft but not melted. This makes blending a breeze and ensures your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is smooth and lump-free.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While spaghetti is classic for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other long pastas like linguine or even penne. Just keep the noodle shape sturdy enough to hold that gorgeous sauce and cheese blend.
Final Thoughts
If you crave a dinner that brings everyone together and tastes like a warm, cheesy hug, the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe won’t disappoint. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for something special to brighten your weeknights, give it a try—and get ready for plenty of delicious, satisfied smiles!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this comforting and creamy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and a rich cream cheese mixture, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. A crowd-pleasing family dinner that’s easy to make!
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti
Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare meat sauce: Brown ground beef in olive oil, then add marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Make cream cheese mixture: Combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan. Toss with cooked spaghetti.
- Layer casserole: Spread half of meat sauce in a baking dish, top with cream cheese-coated spaghetti, remaining meat sauce, and mozzarella.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the beef.
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara sauce.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
