Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, then you’ve got to try this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This recipe is a family favorite in my home, bringing everyone together for a cozy dinner filled with laughter and joy. It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-hearty—perfect for busy weeknights or those special family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

The magic of this casserole lies in its layers of flavorful sauce, tender pasta, and gooey cheese. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that even novice cooks can whip it up with confidence. Trust me; once you serve this dish, it will quickly become a beloved staple at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the creamy goodness and cheesy top!
• Comfort food winner: It’s the kind of meal that warms your heart and fills your belly after a long day.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:

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

For Topping

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

One of the best parts about this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is how flexible it is! Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your casserole a kick.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and becomes bubbly and golden on top.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook your spaghetti according to package instructions until it’s tender yet firm—just about 12 minutes should do. Be sure to stir occasionally; this prevents sticking and helps achieve perfect al dente pasta.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

While your pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned and crumbly—about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat before adding the spaghetti sauce; this keeps your casserole from becoming too greasy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once drained, place your spaghetti in a large bowl. Add in the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts into every strand of pasta—this creates that deliciously creamy base we all love!

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread a small amount of meat sauce at the bottom of your greased baking pan—this prevents sticking. Layer your spaghetti mixture on top followed by the remaining meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle both Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses generously over everything—because who doesn’t love extra cheese?

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. The anticipation will surely build as delightful aromas fill your kitchen!

And there you have it! A warm dish that’s sure to bring smiles around your dinner table. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Making this comforting casserole is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and high-quality spaghetti sauce can elevate the flavors of your casserole, making each bite more delicious.

• Cook the pasta al dente: Aim for slightly undercooked spaghetti to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven while absorbing all those yummy flavors.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier, ensuring you get perfect slices every time.

• Customize with veggies: Adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the texture and flavor of your dish.

• Make it ahead of time: Prepare your casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve for a hassle-free meal!

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some fun ideas on how to present this hearty dish at your next family dinner or gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
• Chopped parsley: This classic garnish brightens up the dish and provides a lovely contrast against the cheesy top layer.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic pairing that complements the creamy casserole perfectly. It’s great for dipping into any extra sauce!

• Caesar salad: A refreshing Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons offers a nice contrast to the rich spaghetti dish.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers add color and nutrients while balancing the heaviness of the casserole.

• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli brings in some green goodness and pairs well with cheese dishes, adding both color and nutrition to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to make your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole an unforgettable hit! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and store it for busy weeknights. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, consider portioning into smaller containers before freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Cover the casserole with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes to crisp the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that you might find helpful!

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

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta of your choice. Just adjust cooking times as necessary based on the pasta type.

How can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also use meat substitutes if you prefer!

Can I freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes! Follow the freezing instructions provided above to enjoy this tasty dish later without losing any flavor.

What makes Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole so creamy?

The cream cheese is key to achieving that luscious creaminess! It melts into the sauce and coats every strand of pasta beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole brings joy and comfort to your family dinners! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own by adding your favorite ingredients. Enjoy cooking, and happy eating!