Creamy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of creamy cheese and tender spaghetti that brings a smile to my face. When I think of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, I envision gooey, cheesy goodness bubbling away in the oven, filling the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that can make even the grumpiest cat perk up. best Italian bake comfort This dish is not just food; it’s love served in a casserole dish, perfect for cozy family dinners or impromptu gatherings with friends.

Let me take you back to a chilly winter evening when I first whipped up this culinary masterpiece. My friends gathered around our modest dinner table, and as soon as I unveiled the casserole, their eyes lit up like kids on Christmas morning. The blend of flavors danced harmoniously on our palates, and laughter echoed through the room as we devoured every last bite. Trust me; this dish will create memorable moments for you and your loved ones too!

I remember the first time my family tasted this casserole; they couldn’t stop raving about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: A classic choice for this recipe; opt for whole grain for added nutrition. savory spaghetti and meatballs.
• Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese to ensure it mixes smoothly into the sauce.
• Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for the best flavor.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This adds that glorious stretchiness that everyone loves.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan offers a nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Ground Beef or Sausage: Browned meat adds heartiness; feel free to swap with veggies if desired.
• Garlic Powder: A pinch of garlic powder enhances flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
• Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano and basil elevates the dish’s aroma and taste profile.
• Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté meat or veggies before mixing them into the casserole.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Cook the Spaghetti: Boil water in a large pot and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well but don’t rinse—retaining some starch helps bind everything together.

Sauté Your Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed and season with salt and pepper.

Create Your Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Stir until smooth—this will be your delightfully creamy base.

Combine It All: In a large bowl, mix cooked spaghetti with the meat mixture and creamy sauce until everything is evenly coated in cheesy goodness. creamy potato soup with bacon.

Bake It Up: Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Enjoy your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole fresh from the oven! loaded sliced baked potatoes.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and cooking spaghetti while preparing the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly, then layer it all in a baking dish for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients; add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or use different cheeses for unique flavors in your casserole.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring it’s still creamy.

Cooking this casserole always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone dives in with joy, leaving nothing but empty plates and happy faces.

FAQ

How can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian?

You can easily omit meat and add extra veggies for a delicious vegetarian version. For more inspiration, check out this French Toast Casserole recipe recipe.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it earlier and refrigerate until ready to bake for convenience.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly, balancing flavors. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

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• Author: Mia Hanry
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese and tender spaghetti into a delightful dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. This easy-to-make casserole features layers of gooey cream cheese and marinara sauce, topped with melty mozzarella, creating an irresistible aroma that will draw everyone to the table. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz spaghetti
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 lb ground beef or sausage (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp dried Italian herbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown ground meat if using; season with salt and pepper.
4. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, and dried herbs until smooth.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with meat mixture and creamy sauce until evenly coated.
6. Transfer to the baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan, then bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 65mg