Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole combines the best of both worlds: the familiar flavors of spaghetti and meat sauce with the added indulgence of a creamy, cheesy layer. The cream cheese melts into the pasta, creating a luscious texture that complements the savory meat sauce and melted mozzarella on top. It's a comforting dish that's easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 (24 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce

• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1 pinch garlic salt

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes. Drain and place in a large bowl.

3. Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain fat and stir in spaghetti sauce.

4. Add cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt to the cooked spaghetti. Stir until cream cheese is melted and spaghetti is thoroughly coated.

5. Spread a small amount of meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Layer the spaghetti mixture on top, then pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top.

6. Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly, about 30 minutes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a spicy twist.

• Cheese Lovers: Incorporate ricotta cheese or cottage cheese into the cream cheese mixture for added creaminess.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if needed.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe as written is not spicy. To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced chilies into the meat sauce.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove the foil for the remaining time to allow the cheese to melt and brown without burning.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly browned.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or an assortment of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, offering a creamy and cheesy experience that's sure to satisfy. With its ease of preparation and comforting flavors, it's a perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own.