This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a warm, cheesy delight! With spaghetti, creamy cheese, and yummy seasonings, it’s sure to fill you up and make everyone smile.
Honestly, who can resist melted cheese over pasta? I love how easy it is to whip up. Just mix, bake, and enjoy the cozy goodness with family or friends. It’s a hit at every dinner! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This recipe uses classic spaghetti, but you can swap it for any type of pasta you like, such as penne or fusilli. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work well too!
Ground Beef or Sausage: If you’re looking for a lighter option, use ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian dish, try crumbled tofu or your favorite plant-based sausage instead.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara is convenient, but homemade sauce can add a personal touch. You can also use Alfredo sauce for a creamy version, but be prepared for a different flavor profile!
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives that creamy texture. For a lower-fat option, use neufchâtel cheese. If you need dairy-free, vegan cream cheese works too!
Cheeses: Mozzarella is perfect for melting while Parmesan adds flavor. You can substitute with Cheddar for a sharper taste. Vegan cheese is also a good alternative for dairy-free diets.
How Can I Get My Spaghetti Casserole Creamy and Delicious?
Creating that creamy goodness comes from properly mixing your ingredients. Here’s how to ensure your casserole has that luscious texture:
- When mixing cream cheese with spaghetti, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This makes it easier to blend.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking the spaghetti while you combine it with the cream cheese and meat sauce.
- Make sure to cover the casserole with foil for the first half of baking. This will keep moisture in, making it creamy.
- Remove the foil for the last portion of cooking to let the cheese get that beautiful golden color.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Creamy Layers:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of about 45 minutes from start to table. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your delicious casserole.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil a pot of water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it up into smaller pieces until it’s browned, about 6-7 minutes. Feel free to drain any excess fat if you have too much.
5. Add the Sauce:
Pour in the jar of marinara sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
6. Combine with Spaghetti:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Mix in the Meat Sauce:
Gently fold the meat sauce into the spaghetti mixture until everything is well combined.
8. Layer in the Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the spaghetti and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Finish Layering:
Pour the remaining spaghetti mixture over the cheese, then finish by scattering the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
10. Bake!
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
11. Let it Cool:
Once out of the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps it set a little bit, making it easier to serve.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley, dish it up warm, and enjoy your creamy, cheesy casserole with friends and family!
This rich, comforting Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is sure to be a hit! Perfect for a cozy meal at home. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works great, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free options. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them gently in the oven.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic for a delicious addition!
