If you are searching for the best baked pasta casserole recipe to serve at a family dinner, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This easy yet indulgent meal combines everything we love about Italian-inspired comfort food: tender spaghetti, a rich meat sauce, creamy layers of softened cream cheese, and a golden cheesy topping made with Parmesan and mozzarella.
This dish is the perfect answer when you want to upgrade classic spaghetti into something heartier, cheesier, and more satisfying. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, potluck parties, or Sunday family gatherings. Not only is it filling and flavorful, but it’s also a budget-friendly meal that can feed a crowd without much effort.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making this baked spaghetti casserole, along with tips, variations, and answers to common questions about this dish.
Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- Family Favorite: A dish that kids and adults both adore.
- Comfort Food Classic: Rich, creamy, cheesy, and baked until bubbly.
- Affordable Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and simple ingredients.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready.
- Freezer Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking and meal prep.
Whether you are looking for an easy casserole for dinner or a make-ahead meal for guests, this baked spaghetti with cream cheese will not disappoint.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious baked pasta casserole:
- Spaghetti – 12 ounces, cooked until al dente
- Lean ground beef – 1 pound, browned and seasoned
- Spaghetti sauce – 1 jar (28 ounces), marinara or tomato basil works well
- Cream cheese – 1 (8-ounce) package, softened
- Garlic – 1 clove, minced
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Garlic salt – A pinch, to taste
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Mozzarella cheese – ½ cup, shredded
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and let it simmer.
3. Prepare Creamy Spaghetti Mixture
In a mixing bowl, toss the hot spaghetti with softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Mix until the cream cheese melts and evenly coats the pasta.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Add the creamy spaghetti on top. Pour the rest of the meat sauce over the pasta. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Tips for the Best Baked Spaghetti Casserole
- Cook pasta al dente: Slightly undercooked pasta holds its shape better during baking.
- Soften cream cheese fully: This ensures smooth mixing with the spaghetti.
- Use quality spaghetti sauce: A flavorful sauce makes a big difference.
- Add extra cheese if desired: For a gooey, cheesy top layer, double the mozzarella.
- Let it rest before serving: Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes before cutting to make serving easier.
Variations of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. Here are some creative variations you can try:
- Baked Chicken Spaghetti Casserole: Replace beef with shredded rotisserie chicken.
- Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti: Use mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant instead of meat.
- Spicy Baked Spaghetti: Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage.
- Four-Cheese Spaghetti Bake: Mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone.
- Gluten-Free Spaghetti Casserole: Use gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly version.
What to Serve with Baked Spaghetti Casserole
This dish is hearty enough on its own but pairs beautifully with sides:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Caesar salad or a fresh garden salad
- Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus
- A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot
Storage and Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you freeze baked spaghetti casserole?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
2. What is the difference between baked ziti and baked spaghetti?
Both are baked pasta casseroles, but baked ziti uses tubular pasta like ziti or penne, while baked spaghetti uses long spaghetti noodles. The texture and presentation differ, but both are equally delicious.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
4. What cheese works best for baked pasta casseroles?
Mozzarella is perfect for melting, Parmesan adds sharpness, and cream cheese creates a creamy texture. You can also add provolone or ricotta for extra richness.
5. Can I make baked spaghetti without meat?
Absolutely! Simply skip the ground beef and use sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a recipe that never fails to impress. It’s hearty, creamy, cheesy, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or a group of guests. With simple ingredients, customizable variations, and make-ahead convenience, this baked pasta casserole is destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
So the next time you’re craving comfort food for dinner, skip the ordinary spaghetti and elevate your meal with this creamy baked spaghetti casserole.