Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole | Plated Magic

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Short Description

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a rich and comforting dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a creamy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses, all layered with savory meat sauce. Baked to perfection, this casserole offers a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, making it a family favorite for dinners and gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a luscious and indulgent texture.

  • Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and carbohydrates, it’s a complete meal that satisfies hunger.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when needed, perfect for busy schedules.

  • Versatile: Easily adaptable with different meats, vegetables, or pasta types to suit personal preferences.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or any occasion where comfort food is appreciated.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

  4. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the beef. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

  5. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until the spaghetti is well coated.

  7. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

  8. Layer the spaghetti mixture over the sauce, then top with the remaining meat sauce.

  9. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.

  10. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

  11. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.AllrecipesPlain Chicken

Servings and Timing

Variations

  • Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for added heat.

  • Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a unique taste.

  • Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier alternative.Wendy Polisi

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

  • Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions on medium power until hot.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine can be used in place of spaghetti.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Get ready for a creamy, cheesy delight! This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting hug in a dish—featuring tender spaghetti tossed in a velvety cream cheese and sour cream mixture, layered with mozzarella and Parmesan, and baked to bubbly perfection. It’s the ultimate easy comfort food for any pasta lover!


Ingredients

  • 8 oz spaghetti

  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • Optional: 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce or 1 cup cooked ground beef for layering

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  • Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

  • Toss the hot spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until well coated.

  • If using, spread half of the marinara sauce or meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.

  • Layer the coated spaghetti into the dish, then top with remaining sauce (if using) and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Notes

  • Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or sautéed vegetables to bulk up the casserole.

  • Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.

  • Swap in gluten-free pasta to make it GF-friendly.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments