If you’re looking for a dish that combines the comforting richness of creamy cheese with the satisfying heartiness of pasta, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Perfect for family dinners, a cozy night in, or even a special occasion, this recipe has everything you need to make your taste buds dance.
The inspiration behind this dish is simple yet irresistible: it’s a hybrid of classic Italian flavors with a creamy twist. Spaghetti is a staple in many households, and when paired with the smooth, luscious cream cheese and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, it creates an experience that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re serving this at a family gathering or a quiet weeknight dinner, the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked casserole is everything you want in comfort food: cheesy, creamy, hearty, and easy to make. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers. Plus, it combines all the best ingredients: creamy cream cheese, flavorful marinara sauce, juicy ground beef, and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of mozzarella and Parmesan. If you love baked pasta, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients:
To make this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles: This forms the base of your casserole, providing the classic pasta texture we all know and love.
- Salt for boiling water: Essential for flavoring the pasta.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: This adds that rich, creamy layer of goodness that makes the dish irresistible.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce, or go the extra mile and make your own!
- 1 lb ground beef: For added protein and a savory depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the key to giving the dish that aromatic kick.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A perfect mix of herbs that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty cheese that makes the casserole so comforting.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a touch of tangy, salty flavor.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): A pop of color and freshness to brighten up your dish.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish, making cleanup a breeze.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt to help flavor the pasta. Once it’s boiling, cook your spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the noodles are al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Use a spatula or spoon to blend the ingredients until they form a smooth, creamy mixture. This will be the rich, cheesy base that makes the casserole so delicious.
4. Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Set the beef aside.
5. Layer the Casserole
Now, it’s time to layer your casserole! In your prepared baking dish, start by placing half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Then, pour half of the marinara or spaghetti sauce over the cream cheese layer. Top with half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining spaghetti, followed by the cream cheese mixture, sauce, and cheeses. This layering process ensures that every bite of the casserole is perfectly balanced with cheese, sauce, and pasta.
6. Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish with foil to keep all the cheesy goodness inside. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once your casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor, if desired.
Serve the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole hot, and watch as your family and friends dive in for seconds. This dish is rich, cheesy, and comforting—perfect for any occasion.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Try adding provolone, cheddar, or even a little bit of ricotta for a twist on the classic.
- Vegetarian version: If you prefer a meatless casserole, simply swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You’ll still get that delicious, creamy texture without the meat.
- Make ahead: This casserole is perfect for prepping in advance! Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- Freeze for later: Want to have this comfort food on hand for a busy week? You can freeze the assembled casserole (without baking), and when you’re ready, just pop it in the oven for a quick and easy meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Comfort Food, Elevated
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is everything you love about pasta, but elevated with creamy cheese and savory beef. The combination of melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese makes each bite a rich, indulgent experience. The marinara sauce ties everything together with its tangy sweetness, creating the ultimate flavor profile.
Perfect for Family Dinners
Whether you’re serving a crowd or just cooking for your immediate family, this casserole is a winner. It makes six generous servings, and leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) reheat beautifully for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Kid-Friendly
If you’re struggling to get your kids to eat vegetables, this is the perfect dish to sneak in some extra nutrition! Add finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to the meat sauce, and they’ll blend right in with the creamy pasta and cheese.
Versatile
This dish is a blank canvas! You can add your favorite vegetables, switch up the type of cheese, or make it spicier with a dash of red pepper flakes. It’s incredibly flexible, so you can easily adjust it to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that is guaranteed to impress, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. The combination of creamy, cheesy layers and savory beef will warm you up from the inside out, making it a perfect meal for any time of year. Serve it at your next family gathering, or make it for a cozy weeknight meal—either way, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
With a prep time of only 20 minutes and a total cooking time of about 1 hour, it’s the perfect balance of convenience and flavor. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your recipe collection! Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, and share the love with family and friends. Happy cooking!