This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is creamy, comforting, and perfect for the whole family. With delicious pasta, tangy cream cheese, and a hint of spice, it’s a must-try!
Honestly, it feels like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with a side salad for a complete meal. Plus, leftovers are just as tasty the next day—who could resist that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: The classic choice! You can swap it with any pasta shape you like, such as penne or rotini. Gluten-free pasta works well, too, if you have dietary needs.
Ground Beef: I like using lean ground beef for a lighter option. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can also work, or for a vegetarian dish, use mushrooms or lentils.
Cream Cheese: This is key for the creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, but be sure to blend until smooth.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is always a hit for its meltiness! For a deeper flavor, mix in some cheddar. If you’re dairy-free, you can find plant-based cheese alternatives.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Spaghetti?
Cooking spaghetti correctly is essential for this casserole. You want it just right—al dente—so it holds up well during baking. Here’s my method:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This helps flavor the pasta.
- Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, but reduce the time by 1-2 minutes to keep it firm.
- Before draining, taste a piece to check! It should be tender but still have a bite.
Draining it too early will leave you with crunchy spaghetti, while overcooking can lead to mushy pasta. Timing is everything!
How Can You Get Cream Cheese Smoothly Mixed In?
Mixing cream cheese into the dish can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
- Let the cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before use. This softens it, making it easier to mix.
- Combine a scoop of warm meat sauce with the cream cheese in a bowl. Stir until creamy.
- This step helps you avoid lumps and ensures it blends evenly into the spaghetti mixture.
Remember, the cream cheese adds a rich texture, so smooth mixing is key for a delicious casserole!
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For The Sauce:
- 1 jar (24 oz) spaghetti sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Creaminess and Cheese:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for baking. In total, you can expect to spend around 45 minutes from start to finish. Surprisingly easy for such a comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm for the casserole when it’s ready to go in.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Usually, this takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside for later use.
3. Browning the Meat:
While the spaghetti cooks, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook everything together until the beef is browned and the onions are soft—about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat afterward!
4. Mixing the Sauce:
Now, stir in the spaghetti sauce, dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper into the meat mixture. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend all those tasty flavors together.
5. Creamy Mixture:
In a small bowl, take the softened cream cheese. Mix it with a scoop of the warm meat sauce until it’s creamy and smooth. This helps to incorporate the cream cheese evenly into your casserole.
6. Combine Everything:
In your large pot, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce mixture. Stir well to make sure the spaghetti is fully coated with that delicious sauce!
7. Layering in the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Scoop half of the spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Add Remaining Spaghetti:
Layer the remaining spaghetti mixture over the cheese. Finish off by topping it with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Yum!
9. Baking Time!
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You want it to be bubbling and the cheese to be melted and golden.
10. Serve It Up:
Once it’s done baking, take the casserole out and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a little. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole that combines the tangy richness of cream cheese with hearty meat sauce and melted cheese! It’s comfort food at its best!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber. If you’re gluten-free, just look for gluten-free spaghetti, and be sure to follow the cooking instructions, as they can vary from traditional pasta.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tempeh, or sautéed mushrooms. You can also add in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra vegetables!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To maintain creaminess, a splash of milk or cream while reheating can help!
Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and adjust the baking time accordingly.
