Introduction
If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and irresistibly creamy dinner that will satisfy the whole family, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This dish takes traditional spaghetti and elevates it with a velvety cream cheese mixture, a savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese on top. It’s the perfect combination of a baked spaghetti, lasagna-style layers, and a creamy pasta bake — all in one delicious casserole.
This recipe has become a favorite in busy households because it’s easy to prepare, inexpensive to make, and absolutely packed with flavor. The cream cheese gives the pasta a silky smooth texture, while the casserole baking process allows all the flavors — tomato, herbs, garlic, cream, and cheese — to meld together beautifully. The final result is a bubbly, golden-topped dish that tastes like comfort on a plate.
Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, potluck, meal prep, or weekend gathering, this casserole delivers every time. It reheats wonderfully, feeds a crowd, and brings a cozy, homemade feel to the table. With savory ground beef, warm spices, rich sauce, and a creamy pasta base, this baked spaghetti casserole is a hearty, satisfying dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Introduction
For the Pasta Layer:
For the Meat Sauce:
For Assembly:
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer
Step 3: Combine Cream Cheese Mixture with Pasta
Step 4: Make the Meat Sauce
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Pasta Layer:
12 oz spaghetti
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup sour cream
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
24 oz jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional for heat)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Extra Parmesan for topping
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain, return to the pot, and toss with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Cream Cheese Layer
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine Cream Cheese Mixture with Pasta
Add the cream cheese mixture to the warm spaghetti and toss until all noodles are completely coated. This creates the creamy base layer of the casserole.
Step 4: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add diced onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Pour in marinara sauce, sugar, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add all the cream cheese–coated spaghetti on top and spread evenly. Then pour the remaining meat sauce over the pasta. We use your personal data for interest-based advertising, as outlined in our Privacy Notice.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Variation
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