Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is one of those comforting dishes that feels both familiar and indulgent. It takes the simplicity of classic spaghetti and elevates it with a rich, creamy layer that bakes beautifully in the oven. This recipe is especially appealing because it combines everyday pantry ingredients into a satisfying meal that works just as well for busy weeknights as it does for casual gatherings.
What I appreciate most about this casserole is its balance. The cream cheese adds smoothness without overpowering the tomato sauce, while the baked pasta develops a lightly golden top that adds texture. I tested this recipe using both homemade and jarred sauce, and it performed consistently well each time. It is also a fantastic make-ahead option, which means less stress when planning meals. If you are looking for a reliable, family-friendly dish that delivers comfort in every bite, this casserole is an excellent choice.
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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole – A Comfort Food Classic
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting baked spaghetti casserole layered with creamy cream cheese, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in a small pan, sauté garlic until fragrant, and stir into the cream cheese mixture.
- Toss cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until well coated.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with half of the marinara sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Add remaining spaghetti, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
- Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Leftovers reheat well the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Spaghetti
Spaghetti forms the base of this casserole. When cooked just until al dente, it holds up well during baking and absorbs the flavors of the sauce without becoming soft.
Cream cheese
Cream cheese is the key ingredient that gives this dish its signature creaminess. It melts into the pasta, creating a rich and smooth layer that contrasts beautifully with the tomato sauce.
Ground beef
Ground beef adds heartiness and protein. It is best browned thoroughly and well-seasoned to enhance the overall depth of flavor.
Onion
Finely chopped onion provides a savory foundation for the meat sauce. Cooking it with the beef softens its texture and mellows its flavor.
Garlic
Garlic adds warmth and aroma, complementing both the cream cheese and tomato sauce.
Tomato sauce or marinara
Tomato sauce brings acidity and balance to the richness of the cream cheese. A well-seasoned marinara works particularly well.
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella melts evenly and creates a lightly golden, stretchy topping once baked.
Salt and black pepper
Simple seasoning enhances all the other ingredients without overwhelming the dish.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven to 190°C. Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a large pan over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until browned and fully cooked. Add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Stir the tomato sauce into the meat mixture and allow it to simmer for a few minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. In a separate bowl, soften the cream cheese slightly, then mix it with a portion of the cooked spaghetti until evenly coated.
Lightly grease a baking dish. Spread half of the cream cheese-coated spaghetti into the dish, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and lightly golden. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This casserole serves approximately 6 to 8 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a baking time of 35 minutes. Total time required is roughly 55 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well once fully cooled.
Variations and Customizations
This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is highly adaptable. For a lighter version, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef without sacrificing flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach make excellent replacements for the meat.
Additional cheeses can also be incorporated. A small amount of Parmesan adds sharpness, while a blend of Italian cheeses enhances complexity. For extra richness, a splash of cream can be added to the cream cheese mixture.
Those who enjoy a bit of heat can stir red pepper flakes into the sauce or use a spicy marinara. Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley sprinkled on top after baking add freshness and color. These variations allow the casserole to suit a wide range of tastes while keeping the method simple and reliable.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, it can be assembled in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Can I freeze baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole?
Yes, it freezes well and can be reheated directly from frozen with additional baking time.
What type of cream cheese works best?
Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne or rotini work well as substitutes for spaghetti.
How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Avoid overbaking and ensure enough sauce is used between layers.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers, or spinach can be added to the sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is mild, creamy, and very family-friendly.
Can I use homemade tomato sauce?
Homemade sauce works beautifully and adds extra depth of flavor.
Should I cover the casserole while baking?
It is best baked uncovered to allow the cheese to brown lightly.
How long should it rest before serving?
Let it rest for about five minutes to help the layers set.
Conclusion
Baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy texture with classic pasta flavors. Its straightforward preparation and flexible ingredients make it a dependable option for both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or reheated the next day, this casserole delivers warmth, richness, and satisfying flavor in every serving.
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