Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Deliciously Irresistible Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

When it comes to hearty, family-friendly meals, baked casseroles hold a special place in kitchens around the world. One dish that perfectly blends comfort and flavor is the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This recipe takes the best parts of a traditional spaghetti dinner and elevates it with creamy, cheesy goodness, all baked together into a bubbling masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why Choose Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Spaghetti on its own is a timeless favorite, but when you add cream cheese, layers of mozzarella, and parmesan, the dish transforms into something extraordinary. Baking it not only blends all the flavors together but also creates a satisfying golden crust on top. This casserole is rich, filling, and the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

The secret star of this dish is the cream cheese. It melts into the pasta, coating every strand of spaghetti with a luscious, tangy creaminess. Pair that with a savory beef marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, and you have a layered pasta bake that tastes indulgent yet approachable.

Ingredients You’ll Need : Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

To make this casserole, you’ll only need a handful of staple pantry and fridge ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti noodles – The base of the casserole. Cooked until al dente, they hold up well in the oven.
• 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara or spaghetti sauce – Choose your favorite brand or even homemade sauce.
• 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey – For a hearty, protein-packed filling. Turkey works well if you prefer a lighter option.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the sauce.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed – The key ingredient that makes this dish creamy and unique.
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty bite.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
   In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti noodles until al dente, following the package directions. Drain and return the noodles to the pot.
3. Add the Cream Cheese
   While the pasta is still hot, add the cubed cream cheese. Toss until the cream cheese melts and coats the pasta in a rich, creamy sauce.
4. Prepare the Beef Marinara
   In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef (or turkey) until fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add the Italian seasoning and garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble the Casserole
   Spread a thin layer of the beef marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Add the cream cheese-coated spaghetti in an even layer. Pour the remaining beef marinara sauce over the pasta.
6. Top with Cheese
   Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the top, covering the casserole with cheesy goodness.
7. Bake
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is melted with golden edges.
8. Rest and Serve
   Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.

Serving Suggestions : Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is rich and satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with side dishes to round out the meal:

• Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Green Salad – A crisp salad with Italian dressing balances the richness.
• Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or zucchini make healthy sides.
• Red Wine – For adults, a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs beautifully.

Tips for Success

• Use softened cream cheese: If your cream cheese is too cold, it won’t melt smoothly into the pasta. Let it sit at room temperature before using.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the noodles will bake in the oven, slightly undercook them when boiling.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake it when ready to serve, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing option: This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about this casserole is how versatile it is. You can customize it to suit your tastes:

• Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini instead.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for some heat.
• Different meats: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage, chicken, or even a mix of meats.
• Extra cheesy: Layer in ricotta or cottage cheese for more creaminess.

Why This Recipe Works: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish shine:

• The cream cheese creates a velvety coating on the pasta.
• The meaty marinara balances the richness with hearty, savory flavors.
• The bubbly, golden cheese topping adds the perfect finishing touch.

Each layer contributes to a satisfying bite that feels both indulgent and homey. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole isn’t just for family dinners. It’s also a great option for:

• Potlucks: Easy to transport and share.
• Meal prep: Leftovers reheat well, making this a great make-ahead dish.
• Celebrations: Pair with wine and a salad for a simple yet elegant dinner.

Final Thoughts for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a must-try. It’s comfort food at its finest—creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. Once you’ve made it, you’ll find yourself returning to it time and time again.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a casserole that will bring smiles to the table.

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