Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Spaghetti (The hearty base of the dish); 1 lb Ground Beef (Adds rich flavor; lean for healthier option); 24 oz Marinara Sauce (Substitute with homemade for extra depth); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Delivers rich, creamy goodness); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Greek yogurt can be used as low-fat alternative); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Use low-fat if watching calories); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Swap with any hard cheese); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (For cooking the beef); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced for depth and aroma); 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning (Blend of herbs for flavor); 1 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Pepper; 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Optional garnish)

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As the aroma of baked pasta wafted through the kitchen, I sensed it was one of those comforting nights—the kind that calls for rich flavors and cozy gatherings. Enter my Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, a delightful fusion of al dente spaghetti, savory ground beef, and a velvety blend of cream cheese and marinara that sings of home. This dish not only guarantees an easy weeknight dinner but is also a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks or family get-togethers. Each creamy mouthful offers the familiar warmth of comfort food, inviting everyone to the table and sparking joy in every bite. Are you ready to transform your dinner routine with this delicious casserole?

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Why is this casserole a must-try?

Comforting and Familiar: Nothing beats the nostalgic taste of spaghetti with a creamy twist—this dish offers that classic comfort in every bite!

Easily Customizable: With options for different proteins and sauces, you can tailor this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole to suit any palate, making it a versatile choice for picky eaters.

Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal prep work, giving you more time to relax and enjoy dinner with loved ones.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress guests and family alike, delivering flavors that everyone loves.

Flavorful Layers: The creamy blend of cream cheese and marinara creates a luscious sauce that perfectly melds with the spaghetti, while each bite reveals a delightful combination of textures.

If you’re in the mood for something even sweeter, consider pairing it with my Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge for dessert!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

Spaghetti – The hearty base of the dish, providing structure and texture.
Ground Beef – Adds protein and rich flavor; lean beef reduces fat content for a healthier twist.
Marinara Sauce – A creamy and savory tomato base; feel free to substitute with a homemade version for extra depth.
Cream Cheese – Delivers that rich, creamy goodness; ricotta or cottage cheese can change up the texture delightfully.
Sour Cream – Contributes to creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt is a great low-fat alternative.
Mozzarella Cheese – Offers that gooey, melty topping; low-fat options work nicely if you’re watching calories.
Parmesan Cheese – Gives a sharp flavor; swap it out with any hard cheese that pleases your palate.
Olive Oil – Ideal for cooking the beef and adding flavor; vegetable oil or melted butter can be used instead.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with depth and aroma; minced shallots can lend a sweeter touch.
Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs for an elevated flavor; you could also opt for dried basil and oregano.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
Fresh Parsley – Optional, but a lovely garnish for color and fresh flavor.

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is truly a family-friendly delight and will bring everyone to the table with eager appetites!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with a little olive oil or cooking spray to ensure your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole doesn’t stick. This step is crucial for a hassle-free serving later, so make sure the pan is well-coated and ready for the delicious layers ahead.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add your spaghetti and cook for about 12 minutes or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the savory filling.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle some olive oil and add the ground beef. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole leaner, then stir in the marinara sauce, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes until heated through and nicely blended.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spaghetti, softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a dash of garlic salt. Mix thoroughly until the spaghetti is well-coated in the creamy blend. This mixture will provide a luscious creamy base for your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, adding rich flavor to each bite.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Next, add the creamy spaghetti mixture on top, spreading it evenly. Then, pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti layer, ensuring it covers the mixture for a delightful fusion of flavors as it bakes.

Step 6: Add the Cheesy Toppings
Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole, followed by a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an added burst of flavor. The combination of these cheeses will create a beautifully melted, golden topping, transforming your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole into a warming and inviting centerpiece for your meal.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes, looking for a bubbly, golden top as your sign that it’s ready. This final step melds all the flavors together beautifully, so let the aroma fill your home while it cooks!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Fridge: Keep any leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it lasts up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Reheating: Bake thawed casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or microwave in individual portions until heated through. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

What to Serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

As you prepare to share this scrumptious casserole, think about pairing it with delightful sides that elevate your dining experience.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of this classic side complements the creamy casserole, providing a perfect vehicle for sopping up sauce.
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad sprinkled with colorful vegetables adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole, lightening up each bite.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and oven-roasted veggies like broccoli or zucchini enhance the meal with their caramelized flavors, offering a nutritious and vibrant complement.
Cheesy Breadsticks: Gooey, cheese-filled breadsticks create a fun, shareable side that keeps the flavors flowing, enhancing the comforting appeal of the meal.
Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy salad adds a delightful crunch, balancing the creamy texture of the casserole with its cooling acidity.
Sweet Iced Tea: A tall glass of sweet iced tea brings a refreshing, Southern touch that pairs beautifully with hearty pasta dishes, making for a cozy dinner vibe.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a molten chocolate lava cake adds an indulgent, sweet ending to your comforting meal, sparking joy in every bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole makes meal prep a breeze! You can assemble the entire casserole—layering the creamy spaghetti mixture with the savory meat sauce—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the assembled dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. If you’re looking to save time even further, you can cook the spaghetti and brown the ground beef, storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will maintain their quality and flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy your casserole, just preheat the oven and bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few additional minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through. You’ll have a comforting homemade meal ready for busy nights with minimal effort!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Variations

Feel free to make this comforting dish your own; the possibilities are endless!

Ground Beef Swap: Use turkey or chicken for a leaner option or try a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist. You’ll maintain that hearty flavor but with a fresh new flair.
Pasta Substitute: Switch traditional spaghetti for gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini for a low-carb alternative. Each change offers a different take while keeping the heart of the dish intact.
Cheese Exchange: Opt for ricotta or cottage cheese instead of cream cheese for a different texture and flavor. Mixing in a layer of your favorite cheese can also add a delightful twist to the creaminess.
Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients. These colorful veggies not only enhance nutrition but also bring in layers of flavor that brighten the casserole.
Sauce Adventure: Explore different sauces! Swap marinara for a creamy Alfredo or pesto sauce to completely change the flavor profile and elevate your casserole night.
Spice Up the Heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick that takes your casserole to the next level. It will add warmth and excitement to every bite!
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted breadcrumbs or sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking for an unexpected crunchy twist. This can provide a lovely contrast in texture against the creamy base.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs can provide a brighter, more aromatic flavor profile that complements every layer beautifully.

If you’d like to finish off your meal on a sweet note, consider serving this with my delicious Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge for dessert!

Expert Tips for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure cream cheese is well-softened before mixing; this will help it blend seamlessly with the spaghetti for a creamy texture.
Avoid Overcooking: Do not overcook the spaghetti; it should be firm to the bite since it will continue cooking while baking in the casserole.
Lift the Flavor: Consider adding a splash of wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a delightful flavor boost.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure food safety, check the internal temperature of the casserole reaches at least 165°F (74°C) when done.
Make Ahead: This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Just pop it in the oven when ready to bake!
Experiment with Mix-ins: Add sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition—personalize your dish while keeping it deliciously familiar.

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this casserole?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, ensure the marinara sauce is fresh and of high quality; look for jars without preservatives and with authentic tomato flavor. For ground beef, choose lean cuts to keep the dish healthy, while the cream cheese should be soft for easy blending—just let it sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.

How should I store leftovers from the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’ve got extra portions, feel free to reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through—about 15 to 20 minutes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) should do the trick!

Can I freeze the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until it’s heated through and bubbly.

What should I do if the casserole appears too watery after baking?
No worries! If your casserole comes out watery, it could be due to excess liquid in the marinara sauce or overcooked spaghetti. To avoid this, consider using less sauce or ensuring your spaghetti is al dente before mixing. If you find it’s still watery post-bake, let it sit for a few minutes; this allows some moisture to evaporate, leading to a thicker consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations I should note for the ingredients?
Very! If you’re cooking for those with allergies, it’s important to be cautious. This dish contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan), so consider lactose-free alternatives or dairy-free cheeses for anyone with lactose intolerance. Additionally, always double-check labels for gluten if you’re using traditional pasta, opting instead for gluten-free spaghetti if needed.