Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Short Description

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a rich and comforting pasta dish that combines creamy cheese, hearty meat sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked to golden perfection. This dish is a family favorite and perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the comforting flavors of spaghetti and lasagna in one dish
• Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
• Customizable with different proteins and vegetables
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Spaghetti
• Ground beef or Italian sausage
• Cream cheese
• Marinara or spaghetti sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Butter

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain and toss with butter to prevent sticking.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
4. Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix warm spaghetti with softened cream cheese until fully coated.
6. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in the prepared baking dish.
7. Layer half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti.
8. Repeat with the remaining spaghetti and sauce.
9. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let sit for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
• Low-Carb Version: Substitute spaghetti with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?

Toss cooked spaghetti with butter or a little olive oil before mixing with the cream cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Garlic bread, side salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Use plant-based meat substitutes or extra veggies instead of ground beef.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade sauce adds great flavor and freshness.

Can I add ricotta cheese for extra creaminess?

Yes, layering ricotta with the spaghetti mixture makes it even richer.

Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep.

Can I add eggs to the mixture for extra firmness?

Yes, beating an egg into the cream cheese mixture helps bind the pasta together.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and loved by all. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner, a potluck favorite, or a freezer-friendly meal, this recipe has got you covered. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy a cheesy, baked pasta delight!

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