Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

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Few dishes combine the comfort of pasta, the richness of cheese, and the heartiness of a meaty tomato sauce quite like Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This indulgent yet family-friendly meal brings together the silky tang of cream cheese, savory ground beef, and tender spaghetti all wrapped up in a melty, golden cheese topping. It’s the kind of dish that turns any weeknight dinner into something special—and it’s just as perfect for a weekend potluck or a cozy Sunday meal.

Every bite offers a creamy, cheesy layer that complements the robust flavors of the seasoned meat sauce. When baked to perfection, the edges crisp up slightly while the center stays decadently gooey. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for later, this casserole delivers big on flavor and comfort.

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Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• It’s ultra-comforting and satisfying—perfect for both family dinners and meal prepping.
• Combines familiar pantry staples in a new, crave-worthy way.
• Cream cheese adds a luscious, tangy twist that sets it apart from traditional baked pasta dishes.
• Melty cheese topping creates that golden, bubbly finish everyone loves.
• Easy to double or freeze for make-ahead meals.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure a smooth cooking process, gather these essential tools:

• Large Pot: For boiling the spaghetti. A deep pot helps prevent boil-overs and allows pasta to move freely.
• Skillet or Sauté Pan: Needed for browning the ground beef and making the meat sauce.
• Mixing Bowls: Useful for combining cream cheese and spaghetti evenly before layering.
• 9×13 Casserole Dish: This is your baking vessel. It ensures even cooking and gives the casserole its classic shape.
• Colander: For draining pasta without losing any down the drain.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps with stirring and layering without damaging nonstick surfaces.
• Aluminum Foil: Handy for covering the dish while baking to prevent cheese from overbrowning.

Each of these tools plays a key role in delivering that perfect balance of creamy interior and bubbly, cheesy crust.

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Preparation Tips

To make the most of this recipe, cook the pasta just until al dente, since it will continue cooking in the oven. Soften the cream cheese to room temperature so it mixes smoothly into the hot spaghetti. When making the meat sauce, allow it to simmer briefly after combining the beef and marinara—this melds the flavors beautifully. And don’t skimp on the cheese topping! Use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for the best melt and color. Finally, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to help it set and slice cleanly.

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Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

For the Pasta Base:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Cream Cheese Mixture:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional for extra tanginess)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for a spicier version)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for richer flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)

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Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Do not overcook the pasta, as it will continue baking in the oven.

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Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream (if using), Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add the hot, drained spaghetti and toss until the noodles are fully coated. The heat from the pasta will help melt the cream cheese further.

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Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, and marinara sauce. Add red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 5–10 minutes to develop flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Layer the cream cheese-coated spaghetti evenly on the bottom. Spread the meat sauce on top of the spaghetti layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheeses over the meat sauce, covering completely.

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Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden on top. If you like a slightly crisped top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end—watch closely to avoid burning.

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Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps the layers firm up, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

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Notes

This casserole is wonderfully customizable. Swap in ground turkey or sausage instead of beef to suit your taste. For a low-carb version, use spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Want more veggies? Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce. The blend of mozzarella and cheddar gives both stretch and flavor, but you can substitute with Monterey Jack, provolone, or an Italian blend if preferred. It’s also a great make-ahead dish—assemble it in the morning and bake when ready.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Since it bakes later, boiling it too long will result in mushy noodles.
• Not softening the cream cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly and can create lumps.
• Skipping the sauce simmer: Letting the sauce simmer helps deepen flavor—don’t rush this part.
• Forgetting to drain excess fat: Leaving too much grease in the meat can make the dish overly oily.
• Using a shallow dish: A deep casserole dish is key to even baking and nice, layered portions.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers keep very well in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked casserole tightly wrapped in foil and plastic for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. If freezing after baking, reheat directly from frozen at 350°F for 45–50 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – approx. 8 servings)

• Calories: 520
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 24g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes, then bake as instructed.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. You can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely first. Wrap tightly and label with date.

What type of pasta works best?

Spaghetti is classic, but you can use linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for a twist.

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper to the sauce, or use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly less rich. It still works well and reduces the overall fat content.

What cheeses can I substitute?

Try provolone, gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavor profiles.

How long should I let it rest after baking?

Allow it to rest for at least 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape when served.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed green beans all pair beautifully with this hearty dish.

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Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying twist on a classic pasta dinner. It layers comforting flavors and textures into one family-approved dish that’s easy to prep, bake, and enjoy any night of the week. With its versatility, it’s also a go-to recipe for entertaining or meal prepping. Once you try it, it’s sure to earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation.

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