Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that feels like a big warm hug, you’ve got to try this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. I absolutely love how the cream cheese blends into the spaghetti, creating this insanely creamy texture that just takes the classic baked spaghetti up a notch. It’s perfect when you want a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing meal that’s ready in under an hour.

When I first tried this recipe, I was stunned by how simple ingredients like ground beef, spaghetti sauce, and cream cheese come together to create something so rich and flavorful. The cream cheese adds this subtle tang and luscious creaminess that keeps everyone asking for seconds — trust me, your family will go crazy for this casserole!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together to balance rich creaminess with hearty beef and classic Italian flavors. Picking good quality cream cheese and a flavorful spaghetti sauce really makes a difference in the final dish.

• Spaghetti: Regular long pasta noodles work best here, and cooking them al dente helps maintain texture once baked.
• Spaghetti sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or homemade if you like; it’s the base for your meat layer.
• Lean ground beef: Draining the fat is key to keeping the casserole from becoming greasy.
• Italian seasoning: This blend spices things up nicely without overpowering the creamy sauce.
• Garlic (minced): Fresh garlic adds depth, but you can substitute with garlic powder if needed.
• Cream cheese (room temperature): Softened cream cheese helps it melt evenly into the hot spaghetti.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): Sprinkled on top for a golden, cheesy crust after baking.

Variations

I like to switch things up depending on the season or what’s in my fridge. This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is really adaptable, so don’t hesitate to add your own twist to make it your own.

• Vegetable variation: I sometimes toss in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the veggie factor—my family actually loves it when I sneak those in!
• Spicy kick: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños gives it a nice heat that wakes up the flavors.
• Cheese swap: Try mixing mozzarella with your parmesan for an extra gooey topping that browns beautifully.
• Meat alternative: Ground turkey or Italian sausage work great if you want a lighter or bolder taste.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Mix with Sauce

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef. I always make sure to break it up well so it cooks evenly and drains off any excess fat to keep the casserole nice and light. Once the beef is cooked through, stir in your spaghetti sauce and let it simmer briefly while you prepare the pasta; this step helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti and Blend with Cream Cheese

While the meat is simmering, cook your spaghetti according to package directions until just al dente. Drain it well and return it to a big mixing bowl. This is when the magic happens—add your softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic directly to the hot pasta. Stir vigorously until the cream cheese melts and every strand of spaghetti is coated in that rich, creamy goodness.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom; this helps keep everything moist and adds flavor right from the start. Then dump your creamy spaghetti over this sauce, smoothing it out evenly. Next, spoon the remaining meat sauce on top and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for that irresistible baked crust.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Pop the casserole into your preheated oven at 350ºF and bake for about 30 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese on top to melt thoroughly and get those beautiful little bubbles around the edges. If you’re baking from refrigerated, add a few extra minutes to ensure it heats through evenly. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving—that way, it sets up nicely and isn’t too hot to enjoy.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a bit of chopped fresh parsley or basil on top right before serving—it adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the rich creaminess. Sometimes, a little extra parmesan on the plate for cheese lovers never hurts either!

Side Dishes

I like pairing this casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette to cut through all the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes an excellent, easy side to soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special gatherings, I’ve baked this casserole in individual ramekins to create personal servings—everyone feels fancy and loved! It also reheats beautifully, so prepping in smaller portions is a game-changer for leftovers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the casserole cools, I tightly cover it with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This recipe reheats like a dream—I usually slice a serving, cover it with foil, and warm it in the oven for the best texture retention.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole a couple times with great success. Just assemble the casserole as usual, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready, thaw completely overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover the casserole with foil to keep moisture in and bake at 350ºF for about 30 to 40 minutes or until heated through. This keeps it creamy and prevents the noodles from drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it effortlessly transforms a simple pasta dinner into a creamy, filling feast everyone loves. I can honestly say it’s one of those recipes that feels like comfort on a plate, and once you try it, I bet it will become a quick favorite in your home too. So go ahead, give it a whirl—you won’t be disappointed!

Print