Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: 2 Steps to Bliss

Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: 2 Steps to Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 8 oz cream cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 cups cooked ground beef or Italian sausage

Oktober 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole*! It’s like a warm, cheesy hug in a dish! I absolutely love how creamy and comforting this casserole is, and the best part? It’s super easy to prepare! Just imagine pulling it out of the oven, the aroma filling your kitchen, and that melty cheese bubbling on top—it’s pure magic!

This dish is a total crowd-pleaser, whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a cozy gathering. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ground beef or Italian sausage, making it as practical as it is delicious. Trust me, once you try this creamy spaghetti casserole, it’ll become a staple in your home!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this creamy goodness. I promise, it’s all super straightforward!

8 oz spaghetti (any type you love—just cook it al dente!)
8 oz cream cheese (make sure it’s softened for easy mixing)
1 cup packed shredded mozzarella cheese (the more, the merrier, right?)
1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or your favorite jarred kind works great)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds that lovely nutty flavor)
1/2 tsp garlic powder (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
1/2 tsp onion powder (for that extra layer of flavor)
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (a must for that classic Italian vibe)
1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste—feel free to adjust!)
2 cups cooked ground beef or Italian sausage (or keep it vegetarian and skip the meat!)

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be just moments away from a delightful dinner. Don’t forget, if you want to jazz things up, you can always toss in some fresh veggies like spinach or bell peppers! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Let’s dive into the magic of making this *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole*! I promise it’s as easy as pie (or should I say, as easy as casserole?). Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you there:

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want that lovely casserole to bake evenly and get all bubbly and golden!
While the oven is warming up, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. I like to give it a good stir to keep it from sticking. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside. Don’t forget to breathe in that delicious pasta smell—it’s one of the best parts!
Now, grab a large bowl (the bigger, the better!) and mix together the softened cream cheese and marinara sauce. I usually use a whisk or a spatula to get it nice and creamy. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir it all together until it’s smooth and absolutely divine!
Next up, it’s time to combine! Add the cooked spaghetti and your choice of cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the creamy mixture. Gently fold everything together until the pasta is well coated. Trust me, you’ll want every noodle to soak up that luscious goodness!
Now, transfer this glorious mixture into a greased baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly; it helps with the cooking process and ensures every bite is as tasty as the last.
Here comes the fun part! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese generously on top. I always think, the more cheese, the better!
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is all bubbly and beautifully golden. Oh, the anticipation!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes before digging in. This little wait is so worth it—trust me, you want to avoid those hot cheese burns!

And there you have it! A simple, creamy, and utterly satisfying baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Tips for Success

Before you dive into making this *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole*, let me share some of my best tips for achieving perfection! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.

Soften the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve that silky, creamy texture. If you forget to take it out beforehand, you can microwave it for about 10-15 seconds—just be careful not to melt it!
Cook the pasta al dente: Since the spaghetti will bake in the oven, cooking it just until it’s al dente is key. This way, it won’t get mushy and lose that delightful bite!
Customize to your liking: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, like sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. They add color, flavor, and a little extra nutrition!
Make it your own: Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness!
Use high-quality cheese: For the best flavor, opt for fresh, high-quality cheeses. Trust me, you’ll taste the difference when you bite into that gooey, cheesy goodness!
Don’t skip the baking step: Allow the casserole to bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This ensures all those flavors meld together beautifully. It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for!

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll create a baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole that’s not only delicious but also perfectly tailored to your tastes. Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
Creamy and comforting, with a rich cheesy texture that everyone loves.
Family-friendly, so even the pickiest eaters will be begging for seconds!
Great for meal prep; it’s just as delicious as leftovers!
Customizable—add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own!
One-dish wonder—minimal cleanup required, which means more time to enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the good stuff—nutritional information! This *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole* is not only delicious but also packed with some satisfying numbers. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 450
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 600mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But overall, this casserole packs a hearty punch of flavor and nutrition! Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite without any guilt!

FAQ Section

Got questions about this *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole*? No worries! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I get. Let’s dive in!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While I love spaghetti for its classic vibe, you can definitely swap it out for other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions and follow the same assembly steps!

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

If you’re in a pinch, you can use ricotta cheese or even cottage cheese as a substitute. The texture will be slightly different, but it’ll still be creamy and delicious. Just don’t forget to blend it well with the marinara sauce for that smooth consistency!

How should I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before you pop it in the fridge. If you want to save some for later, you can also freeze it! Just wrap it tightly and it should last for up to 2 months.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything the night before, cover it, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge!

Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?

Definitely! Just skip the meat and add in some more veggies or even beans for protein. This *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole* is super versatile, and you can easily customize it to fit any dietary preferences!

I hope these answers help you feel ready to tackle this delicious casserole! If you have more questions, just drop them in the comments. Happy cooking!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

Now, let’s chat about the ingredients in this *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole* and some fun substitutions you can make! I always love to customize my dishes, and this casserole is no exception!

Cream Cheese: If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use ricotta or cottage cheese instead. They’ll give you that creamy texture, though the flavor will be a tad different. Just be sure to blend it well so it’s nice and smooth!
Cheeses: For the mozzarella and Parmesan, feel free to swap in your favorites! Cheddar or gouda can add a nice twist, and a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese can introduce a beautiful tangy flavor. The more cheese, the merrier, right?
Pasta: While spaghetti is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to mix it up! Penne, fusilli, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) work wonderfully. Just remember to cook your pasta al dente since it’ll continue to cook in the oven!
Ground Meat: If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, skip the ground beef or sausage and toss in some sautéed mushrooms or lentils. They add a great texture and protein without the meat!
Vegetables: This casserole is a fantastic opportunity to sneak in some veggies! Spinach, bell peppers, or even broccoli can add color and nutrients. Just sauté them a bit before mixing in so they’re tender and flavorful.
Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings! Adding a bit of red pepper flakes for heat, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for brightness can elevate the flavors. Don’t be shy—make it your own!

With these substitutions, you can easily adapt this *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole* to suit your taste preferences or whatever you have on hand. Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole* fresh for later! Trust me, you’ll want to savor every cheesy bite, and storing it the right way makes all the difference.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely at room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. You can pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before you seal it up to avoid condensation!

If you’re looking to save it for a rainy day, you can also freeze it! Just wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It should hold up in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready for some comforting goodness, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Now, for reheating: If you’re warming up individual portions, you can pop them in the microwave for a few minutes. Just cover them with a microwave-safe lid or plate to keep the moisture in. If you’re reheating the whole casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s warmed through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes if you want that cheese to get bubbly again!

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole anytime you crave that cheesy comfort. Happy eating!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole* ready to go, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more special! I love to think of this casserole as the star of the show, but there are some fabulous sides that can perfectly complement its creamy goodness.

Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, buttery garlic bread on the side! It’s perfect for scooping up any delicious cheesy remnants left on your plate.
Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a nice refreshing crunch that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the casserole. The tangy dressing really balances everything out!
Steamed Vegetables: Keep it light and healthy by serving some steamed broccoli, green beans, or zucchini. They add a pop of color and nutrition to your meal!
Antipasto Platter: For a fun twist, put together an antipasto platter with olives, cheeses, cured meats, and roasted peppers. It’s great for nibbling before diving into the main dish!
Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can be a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty casserole. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra flair!
Fruit Salad: For a sweet finish, a light fruit salad with seasonal fruits can cleanse your palate beautifully after the savory dish. It’s refreshing and a great way to round out the meal!

Mix and match these sides to create your perfect dinner spread! I promise, these serving suggestions will elevate your *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole* experience and make it a meal to remember. Enjoy every bite!

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Über mich

Hallo, ich bin Julia, das Herz hinter Vihaad Rezepte und eine leidenschaftliche Feinschmeckerin. Meine Liebe zum Kochen begann in meiner Kindheit, inspiriert von den herzhaften Mahlzeiten meiner Großmutter. Heute teile ich schmackhafte Rezepte, die Menschen durch gutes Essen zusammenbringen.