Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect recipe. This crowd-pleasing casserole combines tender spaghetti, tangy cream cheese, and a hearty meat sauce, all baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly cheese topping. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

1. Rich and Creamy: The cream cheese adds a velvety texture and tangy flavor to the pasta.
2. Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef, marinara sauce, and layers of cheese.
3. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for busy nights.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara or spaghetti sauce
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
2. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture.
3. Spread half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti and meat sauce.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• Use high-quality marinara sauce: A flavorful sauce makes all the difference.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Slightly undercooked spaghetti will absorb flavors and maintain its texture.
• Customize your protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, sausage, or even plant-based alternatives.

Why This Dish is a Family Favorite

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole combines the best of spaghetti and lasagna into one easy dish. The creamy, cheesy layers paired with a savory meat sauce create a meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
2. Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a kick.
3. Cheese Lover’s Delight: Add ricotta cheese or extra Parmesan for even more cheesy goodness.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones!

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