Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings everyone together, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how this recipe combines simple ingredients into something truly special, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.

What makes this casserole a favorite in our home is its heartiness and warmth. Every layer is packed with flavor, from the savory ground beef to the gooey cream cheese that binds it all together. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole comes together quickly and requires minimal cooking skills.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy dish, making it perfect for family meals.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: With layers of sauce, cheese, and seasoned meat, every bite is bursting with taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole uses simple and wholesome items you might already have in your pantry. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that comforting flavor we all adore.

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 recipe is incredibly flexible! You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking pan. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook your spaghetti in the boiling water until tender yet firm to the bite—about 12 minutes is perfect. Cooking pasta al dente helps it hold its shape during baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

While your pasta cooks, grab a skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Remember to drain any excess fat before stirring in your spaghetti sauce; this keeps your casserole from becoming too greasy.

Step 3: Mix Together

Once your spaghetti is drained, place it in a bowl while it’s still warm. Add in the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until everything is well combined; you want that creamy goodness to coat every strand of pasta.

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking pan—this prevents sticking. Next, layer your spaghetti mixture on top followed by the remaining meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle both Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses generously over everything; this will create that delicious gooey topping we all crave.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling

Now it’s time to bake! Place your casserole in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

And there you have it! A hearty Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that is sure to please everyone at the table! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Creating the perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use high-quality ingredients: Choosing fresh pasta and good-quality sauce can significantly enhance the flavor of your casserole. Fresh ingredients often have a richer taste, making the dish more enjoyable.

• Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Cooking the spaghetti just until al dente is key. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy during baking, keeping the texture perfect after it’s out of the oven.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely. This makes serving easier and ensures that every slice holds its shape beautifully.

• Experiment with cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for an extra layer of flavor. Different cheeses can add unique tastes and textures, giving your casserole a personal touch.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare this casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together beautifully overnight.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Presenting your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole can be just as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped herbs add a burst of color and freshness, elevating both the look and flavor of your casserole.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: A sprinkle of these will give your dish a subtle kick, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is an ideal companion that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate!

• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the casserole.

• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or green beans lightly seasoned provide a healthy and colorful side that pairs well with pasta dishes.

• Caesar salad: The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a delightful contrast to the cheesy spaghetti, making every bite pleasurable.

With these serving ideas and tips in mind, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep! It’s easy to make in advance, and it stores beautifully, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer the leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake it.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• If frozen, let it thaw completely in the fridge first.
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
• For a bubbly top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While spaghetti works great, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust your cooking time based on the pasta type.

How can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives if desired.

Is Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole good for meal prep?

Yes! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! It’s a special comfort dish that brings warmth and happiness to any family gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or preparing meals for the week ahead, I’m sure you’ll love every cheesy bite. Enjoy your cooking adventure!