Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole topped with cheese and herbs

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that combines the best of both worlds: rich and creamy pasta with topping meat sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend family dinner. This dish is easy to prepare and can feed a crowd, making it an excellent choice for gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love a cheesy pasta dish?

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 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

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain fat and stir in spaghetti sauce.
  4. Drain the cooked spaghetti and place it in a bowl. Add cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the spaghetti is thoroughly coated.
  5. Spread a small amount of meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Place the coated spaghetti on top and then top with the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly, about 30 minutes.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

This casserole is best served hot. You can serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. If you want, add extra Parmesan cheese on top for an added cheesy flavor. This dish is great for leftovers as well!

How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 5 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

  • Use whole-wheat spaghetti for a healthier option.
  • You can add vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, to the meat sauce for added nutrition.
  • If you prefer a crunchier top, broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.

Variation

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with a mix of your favorite vegetables, or try using a meat substitute.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

  2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

  3. What can I serve with this casserole?
    This dish goes well with garlic bread, a simple salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.