Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The combination of rich cream cheese, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella creates a baked spaghetti dish that is both indulgent and satisfying.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich & Creamy Texture – The cream cheese melts into the spaghetti, creating a luscious, velvety sauce.
  • Family-Friendly – A meal that both kids and adults will love.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be assembled ahead of time and baked when needed.
  • Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes just as delicious the next day.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 (28-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (optional)

For the Creamy Layer:

  • 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)

For Topping:

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (tender but slightly firm). This typically takes about 10-12 minutes.
  3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Drain any excess fat, then add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and black pepper (if using). Stir well to combine.
  3. Pour in the spaghetti sauce, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 5 minutes while you prepare the creamy spaghetti.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Spaghetti

  1. While the sauce is simmering, transfer the cooked spaghetti to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add the cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well until the spaghetti is evenly coated and the cream cheese has melted.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  2. Add the cream cheese-coated spaghetti on top of the sauce, spreading it out evenly.
  3. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti, spreading it to cover the entire dish.
  4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

  1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. If you like a golden brown cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before slicing.
  2. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
  • Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes until heated through.

Recipe Variations & Additions

  • Make it Spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
  • Use Different Proteins – Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage.
  • Vegetarian Option – Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
  • Extra Cheesy – Mix in an additional ½ cup of ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole with:

  • Garlic Bread – The perfect companion for soaking up the rich sauce.
  • Caesar Salad – A crisp, fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
  • Steamed Vegetables – Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans balance the meal.

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty meat sauce and perfectly baked spaghetti. Whether you’re cooking for your family or serving a crowd, this dish will always be a hit.

Give it a try and enjoy a delicious homemade pasta bake that everyone will love.

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