Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further than Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, bringing everyone together around the dinner table with its creamy goodness and cheesy layers. It’s the kind of meal that makes busy weeknights feel special or turns a simple family gathering into a cozy feast.

What I love most about this casserole is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up quickly, and before you know it, your kitchen is filled with mouthwatering aromas that make everyone eager to dig in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you need something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy layers and comforting flavors, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Make-Ahead Marvel: You can prepare this meal in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready, saving time for family fun or relaxation.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of spaghetti, seasoned beef, cream cheese, and tangy sauce creates a delightful symphony of flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you only need simple and wholesome ingredients. Get ready to fill your kitchen with delightful scents as these components come together!

For the Casserole

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce
• 1 8 oz package of softened cream cheese
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• A pinch of garlic salt
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or to suit your family’s tastes.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your casserole a little kick.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook until tender but still firm to the bite, usually about 12 minutes. Remember, al dente pasta helps hold up better during baking!

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

While your spaghetti cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly—about 5 to 7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat so your casserole doesn’t become greasy.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, drain the spaghetti once cooked. Then add in softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir everything together until the cream cheese is melted and well mixed with the pasta—it’s this step that creates that creamy goodness throughout!

Step 5: Layer It Up

Spread a small amount of meat sauce at the bottom of your greased baking pan. Next, place your creamy spaghetti mixture on top followed by the remaining meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses generously across the top for that gooey finish!

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling

Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. The wait will be worth it when you see that delicious golden crust!

And there you have it—a hearty Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ready to be shared with loved ones! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Making this casserole is a breeze, but these tips will ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use high-quality spaghetti sauce: A flavorful sauce elevates the dish and adds depth. Look for brands with no added sugars or preservatives for the best taste.

• Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, aim for al dente. This prevents sogginess and keeps your casserole from becoming mushy.

• Mix in extra veggies: Adding chopped bell peppers or spinach can enhance the nutrition and flavor of your casserole. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra servings of veggies!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely. This makes cutting and serving much easier while preventing a messy plate.

• Experiment with cheese: If you want to mix things up, try adding different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack. Each brings unique flavors that can make this dish even more exciting!

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Presenting your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to make your meal shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
• Chopped parsley: This classic herb not only looks appealing but also adds a subtle earthiness that balances the creaminess of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce from your casserole.
• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with a tangy dressing and crunchy croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green, steamed broccoli adds color to your plate and provides a healthy side option filled with nutrients.
• Roasted vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings sweetness and texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta dish.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy a comforting and delicious meal that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• For best flavor, reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use gluten-free pasta for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works great in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it may differ from traditional spaghetti.

How do I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.

Can I prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! This casserole is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complement its rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any family gathering or cozy night in. Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me. Happy cooking!