Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful twist on the classic spaghetti dish that many know and love. This casserole blends the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese with the comforting flavors of pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese to create an amazing meal that everyone will adore. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or for entertaining guests, offering a unique and savory experience that stands out on any dinner table.
If you are a fan of pasta, this dish will surely captivate your taste buds. Each bite presents an incredible combination of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction. With the addition of the cream cheese, the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy, making it a level up from the traditional spaghetti. Best of all, this recipe is relatively simple to prepare, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: why it’s such a fantastic recipe, how to prepare it, and, crucially, how to serve it to maximize flavor and delight. You’ll soon discover why this dish is an essential addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to fall in love with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Here are just a few:
1. Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily adjust this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, like chicken or ground beef.
2. Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is sure to impress both family and friends with its creamy texture and cheesy goodness.
3. Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions and minimal prep time make it a go-to recipe for hectic weeknights.
4. Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge or freezer, making dinner-time stress-free.
5. Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of cream cheese, spaghetti, and gooey cheese creates a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug.
6. Leftover Friendly: Any leftovers can be easily reheated without losing flavor, making for a satisfying next-day meal.
These aspects combine to form a dish that is not just tasty but also convenient and enjoyable to prepare.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is relatively quick, making it an excellent choice for families on the go. Here’s the breakdown:
– Preparation Time: 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
These times may vary slightly based on your cooking experience and equipment but generally represent a straightforward cooking process.

Ingredients

– 8 ounces spaghetti
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Mix Cream Cheese and Sour Cream: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Sauces and Spices: Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Combine with Spaghetti: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until fully coated.
6. Layer Ingredients: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the spaghetti mixture. Top it with half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
7. Add Remaining Spaghetti: Layer the remaining spaghetti mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
8. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let it Rest: Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the casserole set for easier serving.
10. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, then slice and serve warm.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ready to impress your family and friends!

How to Serve

To make the most out of your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, consider these serving tips:
1. Presentation: Use a large serving spoon to scoop out portions, placing them nicely on each plate to highlight the appealing layers of cheese and sauce.
2. Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that complements the casserole’s flavors.
3. Garnish for Color: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top adds a pop of color and flavor, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
4. Serving Size: Cut the casserole into generous portions to ensure everyone gets a delightful serving while still feeling light enough for seconds!
5. Beverage Pairing: Serve with a side of red wine or sparkling water for a refreshing contrast to the creamy flavors.
These serving suggestions not only enhance the enjoyment of the dish but also create a memorable dining experience for all involved! Whether it’s a weeknight supper or a special occasion, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole will undoubtedly become a favorite in your home.

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and quality cheese to maximize flavor in your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole.
– Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to modify the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a hint of heat.
– Serve with Fresh Breads: Pairing the casserole with crusty bread or garlic knots can enhance the meal, providing the perfect way to scoop up every last bite.

Recipe Variation

Don’t hesitate to make this dish your own! Here are a few delightful variations to explore:
1. Veggie-Loaded Version: Add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the spaghetti mixture for extra nutrition.
2. Meat Lovers: Incorporate cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken to make it heartier.
3. Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables like zucchini for a lighter option.
4. Different Cheeses: Try mixing in different types of cheese, such as gouda or feta, for a unique twist on flavor.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days while still tasting delicious.
– Freezing: For long-term storage, the casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Special Equipment

To prepare your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you will need:
– A large pot for cooking spaghetti
– A mixing bowl for combining the cream cheese and other ingredients
– A 9×13 inch baking dish for baking the casserole
– A spatula for evenly distributing the mixture
– Aluminum foil for covering the dish during baking

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
What should I do if I don’t have marinara sauce?
You can substitute marinara with any tomato-based sauce or even a homemade version using canned tomatoes, garlic, and spices.
How can I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mix to give it a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your preference.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! As long as you don’t add any meat, this recipe remains vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. With its creamy layers of pasta and rich flavors, this recipe transforms a classic dish into something extraordinary. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Try it today, and enjoy a delicious journey through rich flavors and comforting textures.

Print