Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

If you are craving a comforting dinner that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with classic Italian flavors, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is just what you need on your table. It takes simple ingredients and turns them into a luscious, bubbly casserole that is both satisfying and full of heartwarming flavor. Imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti coated in a rich cream cheese mixture, layered with savory ground beef marinara and topped with a golden, melty cheese crust. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional baked pasta that never fails to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keep it straightforward with pantry staples and fresh basics; each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of creamy texture, robust flavor, and inviting color in this dish.

• 12 oz spaghetti: The backbone of the dish, providing that perfect al dente bite.
• 1 lb ground beef: Adds hearty richness and a savory depth of flavor.
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Brings a tangy, tomatoey zest to balance the creamy elements.
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened: The secret star that delivers a smooth, velvety coating to the pasta.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Enhances the creaminess with a slight tang, making each forkful irresistible.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharper, nutty punch layered within the casserole.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating that classic bubbly, golden crust.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Perfect for browning the beef and bringing everything together.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that awaken all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, colorful finishing touch and a hint of herbaceous brightness.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to bake the casserole once everything is assembled. This temperature is just right to let the cheese melt perfectly and brown without drying the dish out.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil your spaghetti according to package instructions until it is al dente—firm but tender. Drain it well and set aside; this will ensure the pasta maintains a great texture throughout baking.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat then add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s fully browned with no pink left. This step builds a rich foundation for your sauce.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the browned beef and stir it all together. Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove it from the heat so it’s ready to layer into your casserole.

Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Stir them until completely smooth and creamy. This mixture is what gives the spaghetti that luscious, silky coating unlike any other baked pasta.

Step 6: Toss Spaghetti in Cream Cheese

Add your cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss gently so each strand is evenly covered in creamy goodness. This ensures every bite is rich and flavorful.

Step 7: Layer the First Half of Spaghetti

In a large baking dish, spread half of the creamy spaghetti mixture in an even layer. This creates a sturdy and flavorful base for the next layers.

Step 8: Add Half of the Meat Sauce

Carefully spoon half of the marinara beef sauce over the spaghetti layer, covering it evenly to provide a savory contrast to the creamy pasta.

Step 9: Sprinkle Parmesan and Mozzarella

Scatter 1/4 cup Parmesan and 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese over the sauce. These cheeses add tang and gooey melty texture that’ll become irresistibly crispy when baked.

Step 10: Repeat Layers

Repeat the layering with the remaining spaghetti mixture, marinara sauce, and finish with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top. This layering builds a fabulous depth of flavor and texture throughout.

Step 11: Cover and Bake

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture locked in and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through and the flavors to marry perfectly.

Step 12: Uncover and Bake Until Golden

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese topping is bubbly and beautifully golden brown. This finishing touch adds that wonderful crispy texture everyone loves.

Step 13: Rest and Garnish

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set it up for neat serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like a pop of color and fresh aroma to brighten the dish.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet elegant garnish that adds vibrant color and a subtle herbal note that lifts the rich flavors of the baked spaghetti. For an extra touch, you can also sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan just before serving.

Side Dishes

This baked creamy spaghetti pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crunchy roasted vegetable medley are also ideal companions that complement the dish without overwhelming it.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a dinner party presentation or layer the casserole in a clear glass baking dish so the beautiful layers are visible. You could also top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or chili flakes for a novel flavor kick and added visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your baked cream cheese spaghetti will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making a perfect next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or cover the whole casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. Adding a splash of water or extra cheese on top can help maintain moisture during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully for its classic texture and shape, feel free to substitute with penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time to maintain that perfect al dente bite.

Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply skip the ground beef and use more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers sautéed with your marinara sauce for a delicious vegetarian version of this baked cream cheese spaghetti recipe.

Can I prepare this recipe without cream cheese?

Cream cheese is key for that signature creamy texture, but you could substitute with ricotta or mascarpone for a slightly different flavor and creaminess. Just keep in mind it may alter the final taste and consistency.

How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Make sure to toss the cooked spaghetti thoroughly with the cream cheese mixture and don’t overbake the casserole. Covering with foil during most of the baking helps trap moisture. Also, using a sauce with good acidity keeps it from feeling heavy or dry.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe scales up well. Just use a bigger baking dish or multiple dishes, and adjust the baking time slightly if needed to ensure even cooking throughout.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is a true comfort food champion that brings creamy, cheesy, and meaty flavors together in one irresistible casserole. It’s the kind of meal that invites cozy nights, happy family dinners, and leftovers you’ll look forward to. Don’t hesitate to try this crowd-pleaser yourself — it might just become your new go-to for comfort and convenience.

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