Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines two favorites: creamy cheese and hearty spaghetti. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a warm, filling meal that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this casserole because it brings together great flavors without needing complicated cooking skills. It is quick to prepare, and you likely have most of the ingredients at home. Plus, it is perfect for leftovers, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Making your own Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is simple and rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be serving a wonderful, cheesy dish in no time!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 (28-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a medium-sized skillet over medium heat, add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook and brown the beef until there is no pink left.
- Add 1 (28-ounce) jar of spaghetti sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Set this mixture aside.
- Cook 12 ounces of spaghetti following the package directions. Drain and place the noodles in a large bowl.
- Add 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and 1 clove of minced garlic to the spaghetti. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the noodles are well coated.
- Place a small amount of the meat/sauce mixture at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add the spaghetti mixture on top, then top with the remaining meat/sauce mixture. Finally, sprinkle ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
When serving Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, dish out portions directly from the baking dish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You can also add extra parmesan cheese or fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for up to three days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- For added flavor, you can mix in some vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms with the ground beef.
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature so it melts easily and coats the spaghetti better.
- You can use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a different taste.
Variation
If you want a lighter version, you can use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. You can also substitute the cream cheese with ricotta for a slightly different texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
2. Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Just make sure to cool it completely first, then wrap it well before storing it in the freezer.
3. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the ground beef and use a combination of vegetables, beans, or lentils for protein.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole!
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 jar 28-ounce spaghetti sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 package 8-ounce cream cheese Ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- In a medium-sized skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add the spaghetti sauce to the cooked beef and stir to combine.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, then drain and place in a large bowl.
- Add cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic to the spaghetti. Stir until well coated.
Assembly and Baking
- Place a small amount of the meat/sauce mixture at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the spaghetti mixture on top, then layer with the remaining meat/sauce mixture.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
