Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: 5 Reasons You'll Love This Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 tablespoon salt; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup sour cream (optional); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 lb ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 24 oz marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley

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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a cozy, satisfying meal that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. This baked dish is a comforting blend of spaghetti, rich cream cheese, and a hearty marinara sauce topped with melty cheese. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea, a quick family meal, or a freezer-friendly food option, this hearty casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

This dish is a true crowd-pleaser! Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

**Comforting Flavors**: The rich cream cheese and savory marinara sauce create a delightful flavor profile.
**Easy to Prepare**: With a straightforward cooking process, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
**Versatile**: Feel free to adapt it with veggies for a vegetarian option or swap proteins!
**Meal Prep Friendly**: This dish is great for making ahead, saving time on busy days.
**Cheesy Goodness**: The melted mozzarella and cheddar on top make every bite irresistible.
**Satisfying Portions**: With 6 servings, it’s perfect for feeding a family or having leftovers.

This recipe is a fantastic example of a Cream Cheese Pasta Bake that will bring joy to your table.

Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Gather these items:

12 oz spaghetti
1 tablespoon salt
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 lb ground beef
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss in the hot spaghetti and mix to coat evenly.
Step 3: In a skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add garlic, tomato paste, marinara, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 casserole dish. Layer the spaghetti mixture in the bottom, top with meat sauce, and cover with mozzarella and cheddar.
Step 5: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes for a crisp top.
Step 6: Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley and serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Keep these in mind:

This dish is freezer-friendly; simply store in an airtight container.
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Consider using a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

This cheesy baked pasta dish is delicious on its own, but here are some great pairing ideas:

Serve with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Pair with garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce.
Top with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely and then cover it with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This makes for a quick meal prep option throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?

Using high-quality ingredients is key, especially for the cream cheese and marinara. This ensures a rich and creamy Creamy Baked Spaghetti Recipe that everyone will love!

Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Cream Cheese can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?

Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti before baking. It should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This helps avoid a mushy texture in your Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Sauce.

Variations of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti You Can Try

Here are some fun twists on the classic recipe:

Vegetarian Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: Substitute the meat with your favorite vegetables for a healthy option.
Cheesy Baked Pasta Dish: Add extra cheeses like gouda or fontina for a richer flavor.
Spicy Baked Spaghetti: Incorporate jalapeños or hot sauce for a kick.

With its comforting flavors and delightful textures, this Baked Cream Cheese Pasta Casserole is bound to become a family favorite!

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For more tips on cooking with cheese, visit Cheese Making for great resources.