Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Layers of spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and a luscious cream cheese mixture come together to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz jar of marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

For the Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, and parsley until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly in the bottom of the dish.
4. Dollop half of the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti and gently spread it out.
5. Layer half of the meat sauce on top of the cream cheese mixture.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, cream cheese mixture, and meat sauce.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Softening Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. You can microwave it for 20–30 seconds if needed.
• Al Dente Pasta: Slightly undercook the spaghetti since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Layering Tip: Use a spatula to gently spread the cream cheese mixture for even layers.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
• Spicy Twist: Use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.

2. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

3. What should I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is sure to become a family favorite with its rich, creamy layers and bold flavors. Serve it for dinner tonight and watch it disappear in no time