Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole – Creamy, Hearty & Comforting

Baked spaghetti casserole is a comforting, hearty meal that brings together the best of pasta, meat, and cheese in one delicious dish. This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole adds a creamy twist to a classic favorite, using cream cheese to create a rich, luscious texture that elevates everyday spaghetti into a family-pleasing meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, this casserole combines tender spaghetti, savory ground beef, tangy spaghetti sauce, and melty cheeses to create a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

The addition of cream cheese provides a subtle tang and extra creaminess that sets this casserole apart from ordinary baked spaghetti. Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses enhance the flavor and texture, giving the dish a golden, bubbly topping with every bite. Aromatic garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt round out the flavors, ensuring each forkful is rich, savory, and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is easy to make, hearty, and versatile. It’s ideal for feeding a family, bringing to a potluck, or preparing ahead for busy weeknights. The combination of cream cheese and spaghetti sauce creates a creamy base that perfectly coats the pasta, while ground beef adds protein and substance. Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese melt on top, forming a golden, bubbly crust that’s irresistible. You can also customize this recipe by adding vegetables, extra spices, or different types of cheese to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 (28 oz) jar of spaghetti sauce
• 1 (8 oz) package of softened cream cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• A pinch of garlic salt

These ingredients create a flavorful, creamy, and cheesy casserole. Ground beef provides heartiness, while garlic and Italian seasoning add savory depth. Cream cheese ensures the casserole is rich and creamy, while Parmesan and mozzarella give it a cheesy, bubbly top. Spaghetti serves as a filling base, soaking up the sauce and flavors to create a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

Step-by-Step Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the minced garlic until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the spaghetti sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt to the skillet, stirring to combine and allowing the sauce to heat through.

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the cooked spaghetti, mixing until the cream cheese is evenly distributed and coats the pasta. Add half of the Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella cheese into the mixture, stirring until combined. Pour the cream cheese and spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Spoon the meat sauce on top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed over the pasta layer. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Perfect Casserole

Use al dente spaghetti to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy during baking. Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing for a smooth and creamy texture. Customize the casserole by adding sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to increase nutritional value and flavor. Avoid overbaking to maintain a creamy, tender texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked spaghetti casserole with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a side of sautéed green beans or steamed broccoli. For meal prep, divide the casserole into individual portions and refrigerate for quick, ready-to-eat lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Variations

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add extra cheeses such as provolone or fontina for additional flavor layers. Incorporate vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrients and texture. For a spicier version, include crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the meat sauce. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold from the fridge.

2. Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, fully assemble and freeze in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother, more appealing texture.

4. Can I add vegetables? Absolutely. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach are excellent additions.

5. Can I make it creamier? Add a splash of milk or extra cream cheese to the pasta mixture before baking for extra creaminess.

6. Can I use another pasta? Yes, penne, rigatoni, or rotini can be used as alternatives to spaghetti.

7. Can I make it vegetarian? Replace ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra vegetables. Use vegetable broth or sauce as needed.

8. How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

9. Can I add extra seasoning? Yes, Italian herbs, crushed red pepper, or garlic powder can be added to taste.

10. How do I prevent the cheese from burning? Cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then uncover for the last 5–10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown lightly.

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Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that transforms classic spaghetti into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. Combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, rich cream cheese, and melty cheeses, this casserole is easy to make, satisfying, and versatile. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping, it offers the flavors of a homemade Italian-inspired dish with minimal effort. Serve it hot, garnish as desired, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy meal that everyone will love.