Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
There is something incredibly comforting about combining rich cream cheese with hearty spaghetti and savory meat sauce to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is exactly that kind of meal — effortlessly delicious, cozy, and perfect for feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a luscious dinner. The creamy texture of the melted cream cheese blends beautifully with the spaghetti, while the meat sauce adds robust flavor and just the right amount of zest. Once baked to bubbly perfection and topped with Parmesan, this casserole is guaranteed to become a new weeknight favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe on your table requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role. From the tender pasta to the creamy cheese and savory meat sauce, every component enhances the texture, flavor, and even color of this irresistible dish.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The star base that soaks up all the creamy, cheesy goodness perfectly.
- 1 (26 oz) jar prepared spaghetti sauce: Provides a rich, herby tomato flavor that ties the casserole together.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein and savory depth to the sauce layer.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings aromatic warmth and authentic Italian flair.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Gives a subtle punch of flavor that complements the cheese and meat beautifully.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: Ensures a luscious, creamy coating that coats the spaghetti luxuriously.
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Sprinkled on top to add a nutty, savory finish with a delicate golden crust.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly, setting the stage for the creamy ingredients to meld perfectly.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Mix with Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked through. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Once browned, stir in your jar of prepared spaghetti sauce, letting the meat and tomatoes combine into a rich, savory sauce base.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti Until Al Dente
Boil your spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, meaning the pasta is cooked but still firm to the bite. This texture holds up best in the casserole without getting mushy. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a large mixing bowl to prepare for its creamy coating.
Step 4: Add Cream Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Garlic
To the hot spaghetti, add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Stir everything thoroughly until the cream cheese melts completely and envelops every strand of spaghetti in a velvety, flavorful blanket. This is where the magic of the creamy texture truly shines.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Start by spreading a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish to prevent sticking and add extra flavor to the base. Next, layer the creamy spaghetti mixture on top, followed by pouring the remaining meat sauce evenly over the pasta. Finish by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese over everything for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your assembled casserole into the oven for about 30 minutes. You’re looking for the casserole to bubble joyfully around the edges and for the Parmesan to develop a light golden color. This baking melds all the flavors and textures together into one harmonious dish.
Step 7: Let Cool and Serve
Once baked, give the casserole a few minutes to cool and set before serving. This resting time improves the texture and makes it easier to slice out beautiful portions of creamy, cheesy spaghetti and juicy meat sauce.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped basil or parsley on top. The fresh herbs add a lovely pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the creamy richness perfectly. A few extra shavings of Parmesan will also make each portion shine.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is another fantastic choice to mop up any leftover sauce and round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. You can also top each serving with a dollop of marinara or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of zing. A drizzle of olive oil and some freshly cracked black pepper complete the presentation beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe reheats beautifully, so store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for up to 3 days, making it an ideal option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Just omit baking it the first time, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or an oven-safe dish and warm until heated through and bubbly. Cover with foil to prevent drying out if reheating in the oven, ensuring the creamy texture stays intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly, you can swap in penne, rotini, or any pasta shape that holds sauce well. Just cook until al dente and enjoy similar creamy results.
Is ground beef necessary, or can I use other proteins?
You can definitely switch it up. Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage make tasty variations while keeping the dish hearty and flavorful.
What if I don’t have cream cheese on hand?
Cream cheese is key to that luscious creaminess, but for a substitution, you might try ricotta cheese or a blend of cream and shredded mozzarella. The consistency and richness will differ somewhat but still yield a delicious casserole.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free spaghetti or pasta alternative. Make sure your jarred sauce doesn’t contain gluten ingredients, and you’ll have a great gluten-free meal.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce with the Italian seasoning and garlic before mixing with the spaghetti. This adds a subtle kick without overpowering the creamy flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that doubles as a family favorite, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is a winner. It’s simple to make, uses familiar ingredients, and delivers a creamy, cheesy, and savory experience that warms you from the inside out. I can’t wait for you to try it and share in the joy of this delicious, homey dish!
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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, creamy twist on classic spaghetti. Ground beef simmered in spaghetti sauce is combined with rich cream cheese and Italian seasoning, then layered with al dente spaghetti and topped with Parmesan cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, this easy casserole makes a satisfying family meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Sauce and Meat
- 1 (26 oz) jar prepared spaghetti sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Cream Cheese Mixture and Topping
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the prepared spaghetti sauce. Set this meat sauce aside.
- Prepare Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and transfer the spaghetti to a large mixing bowl.
- Add Cream Cheese Mixture: To the bowl with the hot spaghetti, add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Stir well until the cream cheese melts completely and evenly coats the spaghetti strands, creating a creamy mixture.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread a small amount of the meat sauce evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish. Next, layer the creamy spaghetti mixture on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti layer. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the top.
- Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the Parmesan cheese on top is lightly golden and melted.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and cheesy flavors of this hearty baked spaghetti casserole.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened before mixing to help it blend smoothly with the pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
