Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a comforting dish that feels like a warm, cheesy hug from the inside, then you absolutely have to try this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. It brings together tender spaghetti noodles enveloped in a luscious cream cheese blend, layered with savory ground beef and rich spaghetti sauce, and topped with a golden crust of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. This casserole is not only downright delicious but also an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that hits all the right notes of creamy, meaty, and cheesy goodness. It’s perfect for family dinners or for any occasion when you want something hearty but fuss-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole sing, you only need simple, everyday ingredients that combine to create a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each component plays a crucial role, from the silky cream cheese that makes the noodles irresistibly creamy to the zesty Italian seasoning that brings the dish to life.

• 12 ounces spaghetti: The backbone of the casserole; cook until just tender to hold the creamy sauce well.
• 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein and a rich, savory base for the tomato sauce.
• 1 (28 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce: Provides robust tomato flavor and moisture to tie everything together.
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that makes the noodles luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds a subtle, aromatic punch that complements the tomato and beef.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the dish with classic Italian herb flavors.
• 1 pinch garlic salt: Enhances the garlic flavor while balancing the seasoning perfectly.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a sharp, nutty topping that crisps to perfection in the oven.
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible gooey, cheesy crust.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This simple prep step ensures the casserole will bake evenly and won’t stick to the dish, giving you that perfect golden crust at the end.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until it’s tender but still firm to the bite, about 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside. This al dente texture is important so the noodles don’t turn mushy during baking.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your lean ground beef. Cook and stir until it’s browned and crumbly, which will take about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole hearty but not greasy. Then, stir in the spaghetti sauce, letting the flavors meld while the beef finishes cooking.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Spaghetti

In a large bowl, combine the drained spaghetti with softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt. Stir until the cream cheese melts and everything is well coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce. This step transforms simple pasta into the luscious base of your casserole.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Then layer the creamy spaghetti mixture on top, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the surface. This layering ensures each bite has a beautiful balance of creaminess, meatiness, and cheesiness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the assembled casserole in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the cheese on top has melted to a lovely golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it impossible to wait before digging in!

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

To make your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole even more inviting, try sprinkling freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just after baking. A little cracked black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes can also add a lively kick that brightens the cheesy richness.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines at the center of the table, but it pairs wonderfully with fresh green salads or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans. Garlic bread or a crisp baguette are fantastic for soaking up every last drop of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the casserole family-style in the baking dish so everyone can scoop their favorite portions. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on individual plates or top with a dollop of ricotta for a creamy contrast. For gatherings, consider preparing mini casserole portions in individual ramekins for a personal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days, preserving the flavors and textures for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! After it has baked and cooled completely, wrap it well with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy consistency.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, portion leftovers into microwave-safe dishes and heat on medium power to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully in this recipe, you can experiment with penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni to change up the texture and bite.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or cooked lentils to keep the hearty feel while making it vegetarian-friendly.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it refrigerated. When ready, just bake as directed. This makes it an ideal dish for busy days or entertaining guests.

What type of cream cheese should I use?

Use regular full-fat cream cheese softened to room temperature for the creamiest texture. Low-fat options might make the casserole less rich and not as smooth.

How can I make the topping extra crispy?

For a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just watch it carefully to avoid burning the cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is truly one of those dishes that feels like a treasured secret to share. It’s so easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for feeding a crowd or cozying up with on a chilly evening. If you’re looking to impress without the fuss, this casserole will become your new go-to comfort food. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

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