Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 24 oz marinara sauce; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); ¼ cup sour cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Chopped parsley (optional)

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Get ready to fall in love with comfort food all over again! Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti takes the classic spaghetti casserole and gives it a creamy, cheesy twist that the whole family will rave about. Tender noodles, a hearty tomato and beef sauce, a silky cream cheese layer, and a bubbly, golden cheese topping make every bite a cozy hug. This is the kind of casserole that turns an ordinary weeknight into a celebration, and it’s so easy you’ll wonder why you haven’t put cream cheese in your pasta sooner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is how everyday ingredients come together for something truly comforting and special. Each one brings its own magic—whether it’s adding depth, richness, or that perfect cheesy pull when you slice into the dish.

Spaghetti (12 oz): The base of our casserole, perfectly textured to hold all the creamy goodness and sauce.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle richness and helps the beef brown beautifully.
Ground Beef (1 pound): Brings hearty flavor and plenty of protein—try ground turkey or sausage for a twist!
Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and depth, melting into the sauce for extra savoriness.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Its fragrant bite elevates the sauce and makes the aroma irresistible.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Infuses the sauce with classic herb flavor—basil, oregano, thyme, and more.
Salt (½ teaspoon) & Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Simple seasonings to enhance all the flavors without overpowering.
Marinara Sauce (24 oz): A bright, tangy tomato base for a luscious, saucy layer—choose your favorite brand or homemade.
Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened): The secret star for creamy, tangy richness that wraps the pasta in velvet.
Sour Cream (¼ cup): Adds a light, tangy creaminess that balances out the heavier cheeses.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts to bubbly, stretchy perfection on top.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Delivers sharp, salty notes for that addictive, golden crust.
Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish): Brings freshness and a pop of color for a beautiful finish.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little nonstick spray or oil to ensure nothing sticks—this step makes serving later a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, pop in your spaghetti, and cook just until al dente, following the package directions. Drain and set aside—don’t overcook, since the spaghetti will bake again and you want it perfectly tender but not mushy.

Step 3: Sauté the Beef and Veggies

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crumble in the ground beef, cooking and breaking it up as you go until it’s browned all over. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant. This is where those deep, crave-worthy flavors begin!

Step 4: Season and Simmer the Sauce

Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over your beef mixture, then pour in the marinara sauce. Give everything a good stir and let it simmer gently for about five minutes, thickening the sauce and blending those flavors together.

Step 5: Creamy Spaghetti Magic

In a big mixing bowl, combine the freshly cooked spaghetti, softened cream cheese, and sour cream. Stir until every noodle is coated in creamy goodness, and the cream cheese melts into a dreamy sauce that clings to the pasta.

Step 6: Layer the Casserole

Time to assemble! Spread half of the creamy spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Top with half the meat sauce, then repeat the layers—spaghetti and sauce—finishing with a shower of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling and your kitchen smells amazing. Let the casserole cool for about five minutes before slicing, so everything sets up nicely for serving.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley does wonders here, adding both color and a touch of herbaceous brightness. If you’re feeling fancy, try a few basil leaves or a scattered pinch of extra Parmesan cheese for a final flourish—either way, it feels just a little more special.

Side Dishes

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is wonderfully satisfying all on its own, but it’s even better paired with a crisp Caesar or Italian salad and some warm garlic bread to mop up every last bit of sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or simple sautéed greens can add color and balance out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, portion Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti into ramekins or mini baking dishes for personalized servings. It’s also lovely spooned into bell peppers and baked for a handheld version, or served buffet-style at a potluck for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a true gift the next day! Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and enjoy for up to four days. The flavors meld and deepen as it sits, making day-after servings just as satisfying.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the casserole as directed but hold off on baking. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual—for best results, add a couple extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Warm individual servings in the microwave—just add a splash of water or extra marinara if the pasta seems dry. For larger portions or the whole casserole, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The cheese will get melty all over again and the dish tastes just as wonderful as when freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different meat in the sauce?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are fantastic alternatives to beef and can completely change the flavor profile. You can also use a plant-based crumble to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.

Do I have to use cream cheese?

The cream cheese layer is what sets Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti apart, providing unbeatable creaminess and body. If you’re in a pinch, Neufchâtel cheese or even a mixture of ricotta and sour cream can offer a similar richness.

Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti in advance?

Yes, it’s perfect for prepping ahead! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Simply bake as directed when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What’s the best way to prevent sticky spaghetti?

After draining your spaghetti, toss it with a dash of olive oil to keep the noodles from sticking together. This makes it much easier to mix with your creamy sauce and ensures even coverage.

How do I adjust this recipe for a larger or smaller crowd?

Double the recipe ingredients (and use a larger baking dish) for a party or halve everything and use an 8×8-inch pan for a more intimate meal. Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is wonderfully flexible and just as delicious in any quantity!

Final Thoughts

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is one of those recipes everyone at the table will remember, crave, and request again and again. It’s comfort food at its absolute best—so gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and get ready to make a new favorite!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this comforting and creamy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, a hearty pasta casserole that combines the richness of cream cheese with savory ground beef and a blend of cheeses. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti:

12 oz spaghetti

Meat Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
24 oz marinara sauce

Cream Cheese Mixture:

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
¼ cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish:

Chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Brown ground beef, then add onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, mix cooked spaghetti, cream cheese, and sour cream until well combined.
Layer and bake: Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in a baking dish, top with meat sauce, then repeat layers. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and enjoy!