Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinner nights. Combining tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and rich cream cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines classic spaghetti flavors with a creamy, cheesy twist.
• Easy to prepare with pantry staples and minimal effort.
• Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
• Bakes into a bubbly, golden perfection that’s hard to resist.
• A great way to elevate a simple pasta dish into a cozy comfort meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 (26 oz) jar prepared spaghetti sauce
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Pasta: Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

3. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
4. Add Sauce: Stir in the jar of prepared spaghetti sauce and mix well. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Spaghetti Mixture

5. Mix Cream Cheese: Add the room-temperature cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic to the bowl of cooked spaghetti. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and evenly coats the pasta.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

6. Layer: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a small amount of the meat sauce over the bottom of the dish.
7. Add Spaghetti: Layer the spaghetti mixture on top of the sauce.
8. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Spread the remaining meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti and sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

9. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
10. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings

Variations

• Cheese Lovers: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy crust.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a spicy twist.
• Richer Flavor: Use a blend of cream cheese and ricotta for the spaghetti mixture.
• Whole Grain: Swap regular spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the baked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

3. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Bell peppers, onions, spinach, or zucchini make great additions to the sauce or pasta mixture.

4. What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from drying out?

Make sure to add enough sauce to keep the pasta moist during baking.

5. Can I use homemade spaghetti sauce?

Definitely! Homemade sauce adds a personal touch and enhances the flavor of the dish.

6. How do I keep the cream cheese from clumping?

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing it with the hot pasta for a smooth, even coating.

7. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken is a leaner alternative that works just as well.

8. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sauce and cheese are gluten-free.

9. Can I substitute parmesan cheese?

Try Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar flavor profile.

10. What pairs well with this dish?

Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to assemble and packed with comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for cozy nights. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal!

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