Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm, cheesy hug, then look no further! Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is one of those comforting meals that feels like home. It’s creamy, satisfying, and packed with flavors that everyone in your family will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this casserole is sure to impress!

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. You can whip it up with just a few wholesome ingredients and have it ready to feed a crowd. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) make for fantastic lunches. Trust me; once you try this dish, it will quickly become a favorite at your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves spaghetti and cheese – it’s guaranteed to please picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of cream cheese, savory meat sauce, and melty cheese creates layers of mouthwatering taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is part of the fun! For this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need some simple and wholesome items that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce
• 1 8 oz package of softened cream cheese
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• A pinch of garlic salt
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Variations

One of the best things about this casserole is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
• Add some spice: Mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for unique flavors.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures that when your casserole is ready, it bakes evenly. Next, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente—about 12 minutes should do it! Stir occasionally so nothing sticks together.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

While your pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add your lean ground beef and cook until it’s browned and crumbly—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the spaghetti sauce. This step infuses the meat with rich flavors that complement our creamy pasta.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your spaghetti is cooked and drained, place it in a bowl while it’s still warm. Add the softened cream cheese along with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and coats every strand of pasta. This creamy mixture is what makes our casserole so delightful!

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

In your greased baking pan, spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom—this prevents sticking. Then layer in half of your creamy spaghetti mixture followed by half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat these layers until everything is used up. Finish off by sprinkling Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Pop your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be simply divine! Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving so everything sets beautifully.

Now you’ve made an unforgettable Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that’s sure to be loved by all! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Making this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole can be a delightful experience, especially when you keep a few handy tips in mind!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your casserole. Freshness adds depth and brightness that dried spices simply can’t match.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti until it’s just al dente. It will continue cooking in the oven, so starting with slightly undercooked pasta ensures it won’t turn mushy.

• Customize the Meat: Feel free to replace lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Alternatively, you can use plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist, keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.

• Layer Thoughtfully: Spread sauce evenly between layers of spaghetti and meat. This helps every bite be flavorful and prevents dry patches.

• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve without falling apart.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Presenting your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole beautifully can make all the difference in impressing your family and friends. Here are some ideas on how to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a lovely pop of color and an aromatic touch that complements the dish beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan: A light dusting of Parmesan cheese right before serving brings an extra layer of cheesy goodness that everyone loves.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Golden, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate and adds a crunchy contrast to the soft casserole.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds a nutritious element but also provides a nice color contrast on your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add depth and flavor diversity while enhancing your meal’s overall healthiness.

With these simple tips and serving suggestions, your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole will not only taste amazing but also look inviting on any table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, store it, and enjoy it later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label it with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
• For quicker reheating, use a microwave on medium power for individual servings.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish!

Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake it. Just follow the storage instructions above for best results.

What should I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. A light side helps balance the richness of this creamy dish!

Is there a vegetarian option for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or your favorite plant-based meat alternative to create a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole last in the fridge?

When properly stored, leftovers will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Enjoy them warmed up or as is!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! It’s such a comforting dish that brings families together around the dinner table. I can’t wait for you to share this recipe with your loved ones and create wonderful memories over delicious food. Happy cooking!

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