Short Description
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting casserole dish that combines tender spaghetti noodles with a rich, creamy cream cheese sauce, hearty ground beef, and flavorful marinara. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, this dish is baked to perfection, offering a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy and Cheesy: The addition of cream cheese creates a luscious, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Hearty and Filling: Ground beef adds a robust flavor and makes the dish satisfying and substantial.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake when ready, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Family Favorite: Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a hit among both adults and children.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces spaghetti
1 pound lean ground beef
1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat. Add the marinara sauce, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Combine Spaghetti and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, mix the hot, drained spaghetti with the softened cream cheese until the noodles are evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cream cheese-coated spaghetti over the sauce. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6 to 8
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
Protein Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat sauce for added heat.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or gouda for unique flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warm.
FAQs
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Spaghetti is traditional, but you can use other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli if preferred.
Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Yes, homemade marinara sauce can be used for a fresher taste.
Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese?
Softening the cream cheese ensures it mixes smoothly with the hot pasta, creating a creamy sauce.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely. Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Ensure the casserole is covered with foil during baking if you notice it’s drying out, and avoid overbaking.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with a fresh green salad and garlic bread.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may slightly alter the creaminess of the dish.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce for added heat.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well. Ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing, and wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, offering a creamy, cheesy, and hearty meal that’s sure to please. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different dietary preferences and tastes. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is a comforting choice that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food casserole. With creamy garlic-infused cream cheese coating tender spaghetti, a savory beef sauce, and a golden cheesy topping of mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish is a cozy, satisfying family favorite. Perfect for make-ahead meals or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
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12 oz spaghetti
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1 lb lean ground beef
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
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1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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In a large bowl, mix hot spaghetti with softened cream cheese until well coated.
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Spread the cream cheese spaghetti mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Pour the beef and marinara sauce over the noodles.
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Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
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You can use Italian sausage or ground turkey as a beef substitute.
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For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef sauce.
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This dish freezes well—assemble ahead and bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
