Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is one of those meals that instantly brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy weeknights at home. The creamy, cheesy goodness layered with tender spaghetti and savory sauce makes it a favorite in our household. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, which means more time enjoying the meal and less time in the kitchen!

This casserole is perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours cooking. It serves a crowd, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks. Trust me; once you try this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy pasta dish.
• Perfect for leftovers: Enjoy the flavors even more the next day!
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily customize it based on what you have at home.
• Comfort food at its best: Dive into layers of cheesy goodness that warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge. Let’s take a look!

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

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers to sneak in extra nutrients.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty veggie version.
• Change the cheese: Try using cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick!

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick during baking, making cleanup easier later on.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until it’s tender but still has a slight bite—this is called al dente! It usually takes about 12 minutes. This texture is crucial because it will hold up nicely against the creamy sauce during baking.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

While your spaghetti cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef until it’s crumbly and cooked through (about 5 to 7 minutes). Draining any excess fat ensures your casserole isn’t overly greasy and lets the flavors shine through.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Drain your cooked spaghetti and place it into a bowl. Then add softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and coats every noodle—this creates that dreamy creamy texture we all love!

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole

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

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling

Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. This final step melds all those delicious flavors together while creating that irresistible cheesy crust.

And there you have it—a comforting Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that’s sure to become an instant hit! Enjoy every cheesy bite with your loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Creating the perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is easier than you might think! Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the Right Pasta: Using spaghetti is traditional, but you can also experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. These shapes hold sauce well and add a fun twist to your casserole.

• Mix in Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when cooking the ground beef. This not only boosts the nutrition but also adds extra flavor and texture to your casserole.

• Let It Rest: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While Parmesan and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for added depth of flavor. Just be mindful of their melting properties.

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or family gatherings!

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Serving your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting meal beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and freshness, complementing the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Parmesan Shavings: For a touch of elegance, add some fresh Parmesan shavings right before serving. It enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you enjoy a little heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a hit! Its crispy crust pairs perfectly with the creamy casserole and is great for scooping up any leftover sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a light dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also brings fiber and nutrients to the meal without overshadowing its flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables seasoned with olive oil and herbs complements the dish beautifully while adding healthy variety to your plate.

Enjoy sharing this comforting meal with family and friends—it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a fantastic dish for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time or store leftovers for later, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely.
• Cut portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can remove the foil during the last few minutes to crisp up the cheese.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish!

Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole without meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.

What can I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How long does Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly, it will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?

Yes! Feel free to swap spaghetti with any pasta shape you enjoy. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! It’s a special dish that brings comfort and warmth to your family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy cooking!