Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Introduction
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole delivers all the cozy comfort of classic spaghetti, elevated with a creamy layer of tangy cream cheese and topped with a golden, bubbly cheese crust. This crowd-pleasing baked pasta brings together familiar flavors in a way that makes it irresistible for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
This recipe is a true flavor bomb, blending seasoned tomato sauce, hearty noodles, and a luscious cream cheese mixture that melts into every bite. If you’re searching for an easy, satisfying casserole that stands out from the ordinary, this dish is guaranteed to become a new favorite.
Why This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a Winner
The hallmark of this casserole is its velvety cream cheese layer, which transforms basic spaghetti into something unforgettable. As the cheese bakes and bubbles on top, it locks in moisture and flavor, ensuring every forkful is rich and delicious.
It’s baked to golden perfection for great presentation and makes excellent leftovers—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Preparing the Ingredients Like a Pro
For this casserole, start by cooking your pasta to al dente to prevent sogginess during baking. While the pasta boils, a simple meat sauce is created by browning ground beef with onions and garlic, then mixing with tomato sauce and a dash of Italian herbs.
A quality Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender, Black can help you easily puree the tomatoes, ensuring a smooth, luxurious sauce. When it comes to dicing onions or prepping garlic, the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper gets the job done in seconds and keeps the prep mess-free.
Assembling the Ultimate Casserole
Spread half of the cooked spaghetti into a baking dish, layer with a whipped blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and herbs, followed by the savory meat sauce. Repeat for a double-layered effect, finishing with a blanket of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
To ensure even baking and to prevent sticking, line your casserole dish with a strip of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet. This makes cleanup a breeze and helps your casserole lift out easily for beautiful servings.
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this allows it to set for clean, appealing portions. Serve with garlicky bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Use a Lifewit Silverware Drawer Organizer, Expandable, Large, Black to keep your serving utensils handy and organized, making mealtime efficient and stylish.
The casserole stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for make-ahead cooking.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This recipe serves about 8 generous portions, each delivering approximately 420–480 calories depending on the type and amount of cheese and beef used. It provides a hearty balance of protein, carbs, and satisfying creaminess.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole (Recap)
With its inviting aroma, creamy texture, and bubbly cheese topping, this casserole delivers serious comfort. It takes familiar spaghetti and cheese flavors to a new, crave-worthy level—making it a top choice for gatherings and everyday dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with a sheet from the Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy removal and cleaning.
- While the oven heats, cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium heat. Brown the ground beef with diced onion, using a Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher to break up the meat. Cook until no longer pink, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pan. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- In a separate mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Whip until smooth with a spatula or hand mixer.
- Place half the spaghetti in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the noodles. Top with half the meat sauce. Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti and sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from oven, let rest for 10 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley. Slice and serve.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Enjoy this rich, cheesy twist on classic spaghetti—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any pasta lover!