Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together, let me introduce you to my beloved Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This comforting meal is not just about delicious flavors; it’s about creating warm memories around the dinner table. Picture this: the aroma of bubbling cheese, savory meat sauce, and tender spaghetti wafting through your home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when time is short or family gatherings where you want to impress without much fuss.

What makes this casserole truly special is its creamy texture and cheesy goodness that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s simple enough that even the kids can help in the kitchen, making it a wonderful way to bond while preparing a meal together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy pasta dishes, and this one is sure to be a hit!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of cream cheese and mozzarella creates a rich flavor that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful casserole. Each one plays an important role in creating that creamy and cheesy goodness we all crave!

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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little heat.
• Change the cheese: Try using ricotta or cheddar instead of cream cheese for different flavors and textures.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This step is crucial because you want your casserole to cook evenly and come out bubbling hot. While that warms up, lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking pan so nothing sticks later on.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook until it’s tender yet firm to the bite—about 12 minutes should do it! Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti well; we want all that excess water gone before mixing in our creamy ingredients.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add your ground beef. Cook and stir until browned and crumbly—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat (nobody wants greasy casserole!) then stir in your spaghetti sauce. This will create a robust base full of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time for some magic! In a large bowl, combine your drained spaghetti with softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until everything is well-mixed and creamy; this ensures every bite has that luscious flavor we’re after.

Step 5: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking pan—this prevents sticking and adds flavor from the start. Layer your creamy spaghetti mixture on top, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Finish off by sprinkling Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses over everything; trust me, this will get gooey and delicious!

Step 6: Bake It Up

Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake until bubbly—about 30 minutes should do! Keep an eye on it; you want that golden top that’s irresistible when served fresh out of the oven.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! It’s sure to become a favorite recipe at your family table too.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Creating the perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is simple with a few pro tips to guide you!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh garlic and quality marinara sauce can significantly enhance the flavor of your casserole, giving it a homemade taste that will impress everyone at the table.

• Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Cooking your spaghetti al dente ensures it maintains its texture during baking. Overcooked pasta can become mushy once mixed with the creamy sauce.

• Mix Thoroughly: Make sure to mix the cream cheese and spices into the spaghetti well for even distribution of flavors. This ensures every bite is creamy and delicious!

• Add Extra Veggies: For a nutritious boost, consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the meat sauce. This not only adds flavor but also makes your dish a bit healthier.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking lets it set up nicely, making it easier to cut portions without falling apart.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Serving your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is an opportunity to get creative! Presenting it beautifully can elevate your meal from good to exceptional.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color and a delightful aroma that complements the richness of the casserole.
• Grated Parmesan: Offering extra grated Parmesan on the side allows guests to add their preferred amount, enhancing that cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is not only easy to make but also perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce of your casserole.

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while providing a lovely roasted flavor that pairs perfectly with cheesy dishes.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole will be not just a meal but an experience everyone will cherish! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not only a delight to eat but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, and it stores beautifully for later meals.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes or until heated through. Remove foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish!

Can I use a different type of pasta for the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this dish, you can simply omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives if desired.

Can I prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole in advance?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for prep ahead. You can assemble it a day before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What should I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

This hearty casserole pairs well with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole as much as I do! It’s comforting, satisfying, and perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate to get creative with ingredients or sides — there’s no wrong way to enjoy this dish. Happy cooking!