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If you’re on the hunt for a comforting meal that hits all the right notes of creamy, cheesy, and savory, then you’ve just found your new favorite: the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. This dish is everything you want in a family-friendly dinner—easy to assemble, packed with layers of flavor, and perfect for those evenings when you want warmth and satisfaction without fuss. Each bite offers tender spaghetti enveloped in a luscious cream cheese blend, mingling beautifully with hearty meat sauce and melty cheeses on top that brown to perfection in the oven. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to crowd-pleaser for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or anytime you need a reliable, delicious meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this casserole is wonderfully straightforward. Each component plays an essential role—from the spaghetti providing comforting texture, to the cream cheese that lends that signature velvety richness, and the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses that add depth, flavor, and that irresistible golden crust.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The backbone of the dish, providing a sturdy and satisfying bite that holds up well to baking.
- 1 lb lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein and a savory foundation to balance the creamy elements.
- 28 oz jar spaghetti sauce: A flavorful tomato base that infuses the casserole with tangy, classic Italian taste.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Small but mighty, garlic brings aromatic warmth and depth to the creamy mix.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lifts the overall flavor, evoking that signature Italian vibe.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The star ingredient for luxe, creamy texture that ties the whole dish together.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty punch that complements the creamy layers perfectly.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top for that quintessential gooey, cheesy crown.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Provides a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal brightness that finishes the dish.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure that the casserole won’t stick and will scoop out in neat, satisfying portions once baked. This simple prep step sets the stage for a smooth cooking and serving experience.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil your spaghetti in generously salted water until al dente, about 12 minutes. Draining it well is crucial so your casserole doesn’t become watery. The spaghetti texturally anchors this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe, holding the creamy and savory layers together beautifully.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef and Add Sauce
While your pasta cooks, brown the lean ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat for a leaner dish, then stir in the spaghetti sauce. This savory meat sauce infuses the casserole with rich flavor and moisture.
Step 4: Mix Spaghetti with Cream Cheese and Seasonings
In a large bowl, combine your drained spaghetti with the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a touch of garlic salt. This creamy mixture gives the casserole its signature luscious texture and bursts of flavor in every forkful.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Begin by spreading a layer of the meat sauce in the greased baking pan. Next, add the creamy spaghetti mixture, distributing it evenly. Top with the remaining meat sauce, then sprinkle on the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. This layered approach creates beautiful contrasts in texture and taste that shine in every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the casserole into the oven and bake for 30 minutes, until you see bubbly sauce and a golden, slightly crisp cheese topping. Baking melds all the flavors and creates that irresistible crust, transforming simple ingredients into a comfort food masterpiece you’ll want to make again and again.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top right before serving adds a vibrant green touch and a subtle fresh flavor that cuts through the richness, enhancing both appearance and taste beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread kicks the meal up a notch. The fresh, crunchy salad balances the creamy casserole, while garlic bread offers an irresistible vehicle for soaking up extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in shallow bowls or ramekins for a cozy, personal touch. Alternatively, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top to elevate the presentation and add subtle layers of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making those leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
If you want to save this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe for later, it freezes beautifully. Portion it out and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to retain that baked crispiness on top, or use the microwave for a quicker option, covering loosely to keep moisture in. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating can revive that fresh-from-the-oven appeal.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative that works well with the creamy and saucy elements of this casserole without compromising flavor.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese, or can I replace it?
Cream cheese is key to the creamy texture and mild tang that defines this recipe, but you could try ricotta or mascarpone as a substitute for a slightly different, yet still rich, taste.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based meat substitute or add plenty of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?
Draining the spaghetti thoroughly and emptying excess fat from the meat sauce really helps, plus avoid adding extra liquid. Using a thick jarred sauce or simmering your sauce a bit before assembling also keeps things perfect.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead and bake it later?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead option for busy days or entertaining guests.
Final Thoughts
Once you’ve made this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved dish—it’s comforting, rich, and easy to customize, making it a staple for easy weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your home too!
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Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender spaghetti mixed with creamy softened cream cheese, savory ground beef, and a rich spaghetti sauce. Topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden, this casserole is perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 28 oz jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Creamy Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- Garlic salt (to taste)
Toppings
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil salted water and cook the spaghetti for approximately 12 minutes until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and minced garlic, then add the Italian seasoning, combining everything evenly.
- Mix Creamy Spaghetti: In a large bowl, combine the drained spaghetti with softened cream cheese, garlic salt to taste, and mix well until the spaghetti is evenly coated and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread a layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Add the creamy spaghetti layer on top, then cover with the remaining meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the surface.
- Bake: Place casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Softening the cream cheese beforehand (e.g., microwaving for 20 seconds) makes it easier to mix.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
- Feel free to substitute spaghetti with another pasta shape like penne or rotini.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add 5-10 minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
