Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

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Comfort food meets easy weeknight dinner with this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. It takes everything you love about pasta and layers it with rich, cheesy goodness, all baked into one bubbly dish. The spaghetti is tossed with a tangy cream cheese blend, then blanketed in a hearty meat sauce, finished off with melted cheese for that golden, irresistible top.

This casserole is one of those dishes that brings the family running to the table. It satisfies picky eaters and leaves enough for seconds. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual potluck, it always gets devoured fast. It freezes well too, making it a perfect meal prep solution.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

You get the best of creamy and meaty pasta all in one. It’s the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t take much effort to prepare. The cream cheese gives the spaghetti a silky texture that feels like a warm hug. It’s an ideal choice for busy nights because it uses pantry staples and comes together in one casserole dish.

What Kind of Spaghetti Should I Use?

Regular spaghetti works perfectly for this recipe. If you want to mix things up, try whole wheat spaghetti or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure not to overcook it during boiling since it will continue cooking in the oven. A slightly underdone pasta holds up better in the bake and absorbs more flavor from the sauce.

Ingredients for the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

The ingredients here are straightforward, but each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture.

• Spaghetti: Forms the base and soaks up all the creamy, savory layers.
• Ground beef: Brings richness and heartiness to the meat sauce.
• Marinara sauce: Adds tang and depth; use your favorite jar or a homemade version.
• Cream cheese: The star that coats the pasta with creaminess and tang.
• Garlic powder: Boosts the flavor without overpowering.
• Italian seasoning: Adds herbaceous notes that blend with the sauce.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that melty, gooey cheese pull.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings saltiness and a touch of sharpness on top.

How To Make the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Cook the spaghetti just until al dente, then drain. It should still have a slight bite since it will finish baking in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

While the pasta is hot, mix it with softened cream cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the noodles are evenly coated and creamy.

Step 3: Cook the Meat Sauce

Brown the ground beef in a skillet until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then add the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Add the cream cheese-coated spaghetti next. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the top. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Serving and Storing Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

This casserole feeds about six hearty servings, making it perfect for families or guests. Serve it hot out of the oven with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in the oven. It also freezes beautifully—wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months.

What to Serve With Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Garlic Bread

A classic side, great for scooping up extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons contrast beautifully with the casserole.

Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil balance the richness.

Steamed Broccoli

Light and green, it offers a healthy counterpart.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring a refreshing bite.

Italian Antipasto Platter

A starter with cured meats, olives, and cheeses sets the tone for an Italian night.

Buttery Green Beans

Quick to cook and perfectly tender-crisp.

Tomato Basil Soup

A warm, comforting bowl to round out the meal.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole has you craving more baked dishes, check out these irresistible favorites from my kitchen:

• Easy Baked Burrito Casserole Recipe
• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli
• Loaded Cheddar Ranch Beef and Sweet Corn Rotini Bake
• Cheesy Baked Ziti
• Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can make it again on busy weeknights.

Let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you spice up the sauce or swap in sausage? Did the kids go for seconds like mine did?

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and more cozy comfort meals over on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole delivers big on flavor and satisfaction, with simple ingredients and easy steps. It’s creamy, savory, and totally comforting. Whether it becomes your new go-to or a weekend treat, it’s a recipe worth repeating and sharing.

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