Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings smiles to the dinner table, let me introduce you to my favorite: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This delightful recipe has everything you crave—creamy cheese, hearty pasta, and a savory meat sauce that warms the heart. It’s no wonder this casserole has become a staple in my home, especially on busy weeknights or during family gatherings when everyone is hungry and ready to dig in.

What makes this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a meal that feels indulgent without spending all day in the kitchen. Gather your loved ones around for this deliciously cheesy experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family Favorite: With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready, saving precious moments during dinner prep.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand or tweak it to fit your family’s tastes.
• Delicious Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, so enjoy it for lunch or dinner again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Replace meat with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a veggie-packed dish.
• Add some spice: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little kick!
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While that’s warming up, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook it until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 12 minutes. This step is crucial because cooking pasta just right will keep it from becoming mushy later on.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and stir your ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat! Stir in your spaghetti sauce afterward; this will create a flavorful base for your casserole.

Step 3: Mix Everything Together

Once your spaghetti is cooked and drained, place it in a bowl. Add the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and coats all the pasta evenly. This creamy mixture brings richness that makes every bite unforgettable!

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom of your greased baking pan. Add the coated spaghetti on top followed by most of the remaining meat sauce. Top it off with grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese—this is where magic happens!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Finally, pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake until bubbly—about 30 minutes. The smell wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner!

And there you have it! A delightful Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Creating a delicious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a breeze with these handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time!

• Use high-quality ingredients: Opting for fresh or high-quality spaghetti sauce and cheeses can elevate the flavors in your casserole, making it even more scrumptious.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the spaghetti until it’s just al dente; this prevents it from becoming mushy during baking. The pasta will absorb some sauce while baking, so starting with slightly firm spaghetti is key.

• Mix the cream cheese thoroughly: Ensuring that the cream cheese is well-blended with the spaghetti allows for a creamy texture throughout. You can microwave the cream cheese for a few seconds to soften it further, making mixing easier.

• Layer generously: When assembling, don’t skimp on the meat sauce or cheese layers. Generous layers add more flavor and create a heartier dish that everyone will love.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, ensuring cleaner slices when serving and enhancing flavors as they meld together.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Serving your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish beautifully and enhance your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: Chopped fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top add a vibrant color and a burst of fresh flavor, complementing the richness of the casserole.
• Parmesan shavings: Adding thin shavings of Parmesan cheese right before serving adds a touch of elegance and an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce!
• Caesar salad: A light Caesar salad provides a refreshing crunch alongside the rich pasta. The crisp romaine and tangy dressing create a wonderful balance.
• Steamed vegetables: Steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your meal while being easy to prepare. Their mild flavors complement the casserole perfectly.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These caramelized bites have an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with cheesy dishes like this casserole, adding depth and variety to your plate.

With these serving suggestions, your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole will not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on your dining table! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely and cut it into portions.
• Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this dish.

Can I use another type of pasta for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, you can swap it out for penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

How long does Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this casserole will last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week!

Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can also add some beans for extra protein!

What sides go well with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

A fresh garden salad or steamed broccoli pairs beautifully with this dish. Garlic bread is also a favorite choice to complement the cheesy flavors!

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole truly brings comfort food to a new level! It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—there’s nothing quite like a warm slice of home-cooked goodness on your plate. Happy cooking!