This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a warm and cheesy treat that hits the spot. With delicious spaghetti, creamy cheese, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s comfort food in a pan!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want cheesy pasta? I love how simple it is to make, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends or family. Just bake, serve, and watch the smiles! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti works perfectly here, but you can switch it up with penne or rotini for a fun twist. Just keep an eye on cooking times since each type varies a bit.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Feel free to swap for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try adding cooked lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture!
Cream Cheese: If you’re looking for something lighter, Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute. You could also use ricotta for a slightly different flavor profile.
Marinara Sauce: Homemade or jarred marinara works well. You could even use Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist, but remember to adjust the seasoning for balance.
How Do You Get Cream Cheese Smooth in a Casserole?
Mixing cream cheese into pasta can be tricky if you want it to be smooth. Start by softening it at room temperature before mixing. For even better results, beat it in a bowl using a hand mixer until creamy.
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature so it blends well.
- Mix the cooked spaghetti into the meat sauce first, incorporating everything together.
- Gradually stir in the cream cheese to avoid clumping. This technique ensures a nice creamy texture throughout.
By following these tips, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy casserole that’s sure to please everyone!
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take you about 15 minutes of preparation time and about 25 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish before you dive into this cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish. This makes sure your casserole doesn’t stick!
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
In a large pot, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they soften and become fragrant—this should take around 3-4 minutes.
4. Brown the Meat:
Next, add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook it through, breaking the meat into small pieces with a spoon until it’s nicely browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a cleaner dish!
5. Combine with Sauce:
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning into your meat mixture. Season it with salt and pepper according to your taste and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
6. Prepare the Cream Cheese:
While the sauce is simmering, in a separate bowl, beat your softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. This will help it blend in seamlessly with the other ingredients later.
7. Mix It All Together:
Now, take that cooked spaghetti and add it to the meat sauce mixture in the skillet. Stir everything together really well to ensure the spaghetti is fully coated in the delicious sauce! Then, mix in the cream cheese until it creates a creamy sauce that beautifully coats the spaghetti.
8. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the spaghetti mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite is delicious!
9. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Now it’s time for the good stuff! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of your casserole.
10. Bake It Up:
Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You want to see the cheese melt, bubble, and turn a nice golden color!
11. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done baking, take the casserole out and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for sharing. 🥰
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since different shapes may cook at varying rates.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, simply substitute the ground beef or sausage with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or your favorite plant-based meat alternatives. You can also toss in some fresh vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes, you can! This dish can be assembled up to a day ahead of time. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the refrigerator, but increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or reheat in the oven until warmed through. You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top to melt for extra deliciousness!
