Deliciously Cheesy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Let me tell you about an incredible dish that has become a family favorite in my household: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Imagine the sheer comfort of al dente spaghetti smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The best part? It’s simple to prepare and delivers a delightful blend of flavors that will have your family asking for seconds!
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is not just another spaghetti bake; it’s packed with flavor and comfort that everybody can appreciate. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick and budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal that pleases even the pickiest of eaters.
Whether you’re hosting a family brunch or need something warm and cozy for a chilly evening, this casserole fits the bill. It’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
"This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is pure magic! The creamy texture of the cream cheese combined with the savory meat sauce takes spaghetti night to a whole new level. My kids devoured it!" – Satisfied Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a breeze! We’ll start by preheating the oven and cooking the pasta, then brown the ground beef and mix everything together. The layering is key, and we’ll top it with melted cheese. In about an hour, you’ll have a bubbly, golden masterpiece ready to be enjoyed!
What you’ll need
To get started, gather these 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 of garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- A pinch of garlic salt
Feel free to substitute low-fat cream cheese or add vegetables for extra nutrition!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Cook Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and stir in the spaghetti sauce until heated through.
- Mix Pasta and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spaghetti with softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the pasta is perfectly coated.
- Layer the Casserole: Begin with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Add the creamy spaghetti mixture on top, then pour the remaining meat sauce over that. Finally, sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake: Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serve your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole hot from the oven! It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a special touch, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Storage and reheating tips
Once you’ve enjoyed your meal, you might have some leftovers that you’ll want to save for later! This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to three months. Just slice it into servings and freeze them in a single layer first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave until warm.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and good-quality cheeses to enhance the flavor profile.
- Don’t skimp on the seasoning: The Italian seasoning and garlic are essential for a flavor boost, so ensure they’re incorporated well.
- Adjust thickness: If your spaghetti sauce is too thick, consider adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it when mixing with the beef.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Explore some variations! You could swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Alternatively, throw in sautéed spinach or bell peppers for an extra veggie boost. You could even try adding a layer of ricotta cheese for a creamier texture!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation generally takes about 15-20 minutes, with baking taking an additional 30 minutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients and assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven right before serving!
Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! You could replace the ground beef with a mix of your favorite veggies, lentils, or even a meat substitute.
How can I spice it up?
Add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a little heat, or top with jalapeños for an added kick!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Allow the casserole to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.
Final thoughts
Ready to treat your family to a comforting and creamy casserole? This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is an excellent way to bring smiles to the dinner table! I’d love to hear how your version turns out, so don’t hesitate to leave a comment below! Enjoy your meal!
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and stir in the spaghetti sauce until heated through.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spaghetti with softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix until the pasta is perfectly coated.
- Begin with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Add the creamy spaghetti mixture on top, then pour the remaining meat sauce over that. Finally, sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
- Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top.