Irresistible Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate; imagine creamy, cheesy goodness enveloping tender spaghetti, all baked to perfection. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table, eager to dive into this delightful dish.

I still remember the first time I made this casserole for my family. I was met with wide eyes and happy faces as they devoured every bite. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings, promising an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

My kids looked at me in disbelief when they tasted this for the first time; they were convinced I had turned into a culinary wizard overnight.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: Use your favorite brand; cooking it al dente gives a lovely texture that holds up in the casserole.

• Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a creamier consistency that melts beautifully.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty without being overly greasy.

• Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce enhances the flavor; homemade or store-bought works perfectly.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This adds that gooey topping that everyone loves—don’t skimp!

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil adds depth that complements the dish wonderfully.

• Parmesan Cheese: For sprinkling on top before baking; it adds a delightful crusty finish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Let’s get cooking!

Add Some Flavor to Your Meat: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Add Italian seasoning and drain excess fat.

Sauce It Up!: Stir in marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen as the flavors meld together beautifully.

Creamy Dreamy Filling: In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese with a splash of milk until smooth. This creates a delightful creamy filling that binds everything together.

Combine the Goodness: Toss the cooked spaghetti into the meat mixture, then fold in the cream cheese mixture until everything is well coated and looking deliciously creamy.

Layer and Bake!: Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella on top, layer with remaining spaghetti, and finish with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is sure to become your new go-to recipe! It’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with love, laughter, and cheesy goodness. Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the spaghetti until al dente, then mix it with cream cheese, marinara, and spices. Layer in a baking dish and sprinkle cheese on top before baking until bubbly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also swap marinara for Alfredo sauce if you’re feeling adventurous with flavors.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

The first time I made this casserole, my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They still ask for it at every potluck, making me feel like a culinary rock star.

FAQ

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

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well and tastes great in this casserole.

How long does it take to bake the casserole?

Bake for about 25-30 minutes at 350°F until golden and bubbly on top.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate before baking when you’re ready to serve.

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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that combines tender spaghetti with creamy cheese and savory ground beef. This hearty casserole bakes to perfection, creating a delightful golden crust that will have your family clamoring for seconds. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress both kids and adults alike!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook spaghetti until al dente; drain.
2. In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat, adding Italian seasoning. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Mix softened cream cheese with a splash of milk until smooth.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the meat mixture, then fold in the cream cheese mixture until well coated.
6. Layer half of the pasta mix in a greased baking dish, sprinkle half of the mozzarella on top, then repeat layers.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approximately 280g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients. - Substitute marinara sauce with Alfredo for a different flavor twist. - Use block cream cheese for a thicker filling.