Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone in your family will love, look no further than Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something hearty without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me; once you try it, it will become a favorite of yours too!

The beauty of this casserole lies in its creamy layers and cheesy goodness. With each bite, you’ll experience tender pasta smothered in a rich sauce and topped with gooey cheese. It’s truly indulgent yet surprisingly easy to whip up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish comes together in just over an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the creamy goodness of this comforting meal.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Deliciously cheesy: Who can say no to layers of cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella?
• Versatile flavors: The savory spices and hearty meat sauce make this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this delicious casserole to life! You probably already have many of these at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce
• 1 8 oz package of softened cream cheese
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• A pinch of garlic salt
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your family’s preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick!
• Try different cheeses: Mix it up with cheddar or gouda if you’re feeling adventurous.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and gets that beautiful bubbly top we all love!

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Once boiling, cook your spaghetti until it’s tender yet firm to the bite—about 12 minutes. This step is crucial because perfectly cooked pasta will hold its shape and absorb the delicious flavors from the sauce.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

While your pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir your ground beef until it’s nicely browned and crumbly—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain off any excess fat before stirring in your spaghetti sauce. This step adds flavor depth and keeps your casserole from being greasy.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Drain your cooked spaghetti and place it in a bowl. Now for the fun part! Add in that creamy softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt. Stir until everything is well combined and the cream cheese melts into that lovely spaghetti coating every strand.

Step 5: Assemble & Bake

Spread a small amount of meat sauce at the bottom of your greased baking pan. Layer on your creamy spaghetti mixture followed by the remaining meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle that glorious Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in your preheated oven until bubbly—about 30 minutes—and let that aroma fill your home!

And there you have it! A delightful Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that’s sure to warm hearts around your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Making this casserole is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use block cream cheese – Opting for block cream cheese instead of spreadable can make it easier to melt and mix into the spaghetti, giving you that creamy texture you desire.
• Customize your protein – Feel free to substitute lean ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option that still delivers on flavor.
• Add veggies for extra nutrition – Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach before baking to sneak in some extra nutrients and enhance the flavor profile.
• Make it ahead of time – Prepare the casserole earlier in the day, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy a hearty meal!
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it well can make a big difference at your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil or parsley – Chopped fresh herbs add a burst of color and freshness that complements the cheesy flavors beautifully.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top just before serving to give your dish an extra kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread – A classic companion, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate while adding a satisfying crunch.
• Caesar salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan balances the richness of the casserole for a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide both flavor and color on your plate; they are an easy way to add healthy sides!
• Steamed green beans – Bright green beans tossed with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice offer a light yet flavorful side that pairs nicely with the creamy spaghetti.

With these garnishes and side dishes, you can transform your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole into a complete meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely after baking.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use a different type of pasta for the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Absolutely! You can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole healthier?

You can use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber or lean ground turkey instead of beef. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can also enhance the nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can I prepare the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

What should I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

A light salad or steamed vegetables pairs wonderfully with this hearty casserole. Garlic bread is also a popular choice!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any family dinner. Enjoy making it, and feel free to share your experience or variations! Happy cooking!