Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If there’s one dish that guarantees rave reviews at any gathering, it’s this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Imagine layers of creamy, tangy spaghetti, savory beef, and rich tomato sauce all cozied under a blanket of bubbling, golden cheese. It’s a comforting casserole that’s somehow both familiar and delightfully surprising in its flavor and texture. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or bringing a show-stopping meal to a potluck, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular feast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is how effortlessly pantry staples come together into something magical. Every ingredient in this list plays a starring role — from making the noodles taste ultra-luxurious to adding that irresistible cheesy finish.

• Spaghetti (12 oz): Choose your favorite spaghetti shape; just be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
• Lean ground beef (1 lb): Lean beef delivers hearty flavor without extra grease, perfect for a casserole.
• Spaghetti sauce (28 oz jar): Go classic or pick a sauce with basil or mushrooms to give the dish your signature twist.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): This is the secret ingredient that makes the spaghetti wonderfully creamy throughout.
• Garlic (1 clove, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth—don’t skip it!
• Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A classic blend that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
• Garlic salt (a pinch): It heightens the flavor of both the cheese and sauce for a more memorable bite.
• Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds a nutty, salty hit to the bubbling cheese topping.
• Mozzarella cheese (½ cup, shredded): Melts into gooey, browned perfection over the top.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

Get your oven warmed up to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), and give your 9×13-inch baking pan a light greasing. This simple step ensures easy serving later, so none of that glorious cheesy crust sticks!

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the spaghetti just until tender, about 12 minutes. Drain well — al dente pasta is ideal because it soaks up all that creamy sauce without getting mushy.

Step 3: Prepare the Savory Beef Sauce

While the pasta cooks, brown the lean ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart as you go. Drain off any excess fat, then stir in the spaghetti sauce. Let the flavors meld together for a few minutes; this savory base is what gives your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole its rich heartiness.

Step 4: Make Your Creamy Spaghetti Layer

Transfer the drained spaghetti to a large bowl while it’s still hot. Add the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir while the noodles are warm so the cream cheese melts in, coating the spaghetti in a silky, tangy layer that truly sets this casserole apart.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spoon a thin layer of the meat sauce into the bottom of your prepared pan. Next, pile on the creamy spaghetti mixture, spreading gently for even layers. Pour over the remaining meat sauce, making sure every noodle is covered. Finally, crown the casserole with a mix of grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella — the more, the merrier!

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Place the assembled casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden on top. Let it rest a few minutes after taking it out of the oven to make slicing easier and savor those creamy layers.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

A little garnish can turn your casserole into a true showpiece. Try scattering freshly chopped parsley or basil over the melted cheese just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of extra Parmesan adds another savory note that pairs beautifully with the creamy spaghetti below.

Side Dishes

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it absolutely shines with some simple sides. Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in Italian vinaigrette or serve alongside buttery garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. Roasted broccoli or green beans are lovely, if you want to add a bit of green to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting or bringing this to a potluck, consider baking the casserole in individual ramekins for a fun, personal touch. You can also try layering in sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or roasted red peppers for bursts of color and added flavor. No matter how you serve it, this dish makes for an eye-catching centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge. Allow it to cool, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to four days, ready for midnight munchies or an easy weeknight meal.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, this casserole is freezer-friendly! Assemble everything but hold off on baking; wrap the pan well and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through and the cheese re-melts, usually about 20 minutes. A microwave works too for individual portions, but covering the dish and adding a splash of water will help keep everything from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, feel free to swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne if that’s what you have on hand. Thicker pasta holds up well with the creamy sauce and cheese.

What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?

For speedy softening, remove the cream cheese from the wrapper, cut it into cubes, and let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. You can also microwave it in 10-second bursts, just until soft but not melted.

Is it possible to make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, or use a medley of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a veggie-forward version that’s just as satisfying.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this casserole is perfect for advance prep. Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Let it come closer to room temperature before it goes in the oven for even heating.

What makes this casserole extra creamy?

The magic is in the combination of softened cream cheese melted into the hot spaghetti and a touch of garlic and Italian seasoning. This transforms plain noodles into a wonderfully luscious, almost decadent, casserole layer that’s the star of this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Sharing Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole always sparks joy — there’s just something irresistible about those creamy, cheesy layers paired with rich, savory sauce. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests, I promise this comfort-food favorite will have everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with delicious anticipation!

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