If you’re looking for a dinner that combines comfort, indulgence, and ease, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate choice. This recipe takes the classic spaghetti and marinara to the next level with a creamy, cheesy twist. Layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese come together in a casserole dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week. With a golden bubbly top and rich, velvety cream cheese-infused spaghetti, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss until the noodles are evenly coated. - Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.Pour in the marinara sauce, then add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer the cream cheese-coated spaghetti on top of the sauce. Finish by spreading the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. - Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. - Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, if desired.
Tips
- Softening Cream Cheese
For a smoother cream cheese mixture, let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing. - Boost the Flavor
Add a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while simmering for extra depth. - Make It Spicy
If you love spice, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the meat sauce. - Choose Quality Marinara
A good marinara sauce can elevate this dish. Opt for a high-quality store-bought brand or use homemade marinara.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezer: Assemble the casserole and freeze before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as instructed.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version
Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based meat crumbles. - Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free. - Lighter Option
Swap the cream cheese for Neufchâtel cheese and use lean ground turkey instead of beef. - Extra Cheesy
Add a layer of ricotta cheese or extra Parmesan between the meat sauce and spaghetti for even more cheesy goodness.
Nutrition Details (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fiber: 3g
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving for best results.
What’s the best way to reheat baked spaghetti?
Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.
Can I substitute cream cheese with another ingredient?
For a slightly different flavor, use ricotta or mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese.
What sides pair well with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?
Garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans make great accompaniments.