Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, family-friendly meal that hits all the right comfort-food notes, then this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Seriously, I absolutely love how this dish comes together with creamy, cheesy spaghetti, hearty meat sauce, and that golden parmesan crust baked right on top. It’s been a huge hit at my dinner table, and I’m excited to share exactly how you can nail it perfectly too!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients team up perfectly to create a balanced, flavorful casserole. Look for a good quality spaghetti sauce that you love, and remember that room temperature cream cheese melts smoother into the noodles for that luscious coating.

• Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works beautifully here; just be sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the bake.
• Prepared Spaghetti Sauce: Choose a jarred sauce with Italian herbs or your favorite flavor profile; you can always bulk it up with extra seasoning if you want.
• Lean Ground Beef: I like 90% lean for less grease but you can go leaner if you prefer.
• Italian Seasoning: This adds that classic Italian flavor punch without any fuss.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key — it brings so much warmth to the sauce and casserole.
• Cream Cheese: Soften this ahead of time to make stirring it into the hot pasta a breeze.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle generously on top for a golden, savory crust.

Variations

I absolutely love that this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is super versatile, so you can easily customize it based on your taste or what you have on hand. Here’s how I’ve changed it up over time:

• Add Veggies: I often toss in sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach for an extra nutrient boost and delicious texture.
• Swap the Meat: Try ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef for different flavor profiles.
• Go Vegetarian: Skip the meat and load up on mushrooms and zucchini, then add a little extra parmesan for richness.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce for a subtle kick that wakes up the creamy sauce.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning your lean ground beef until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. I like to break it apart into small crumbles as it cooks for even distribution. Once browned, drain any excess fat (this helps prevent a greasy casserole) then stir in your prepared spaghetti sauce. Turn off the heat and set this delicious meaty sauce aside for later layering.

Step 2: Cook and Creamify the Spaghetti

Cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions, but here’s a quick tip: go for al dente so it stays firm through the baking process. Drain well and immediately place the hot spaghetti in a large bowl. Add the room temperature cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic. Stir vigorously until the cream cheese melts and the noodles are coated in a silky, creamy layer. I love this step because that creaminess is the magic that sets this casserole apart.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Grab a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish — I usually spray it with a bit of cooking spray or rub with olive oil to help prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom; this keeps the pasta from sticking and adds flavor right from the first bite. Next, spread your creamy spaghetti evenly on top of the sauce, then pour over the remaining meat sauce. Finally, sprinkle parmesan cheese generously across the top—it browns beautifully and adds a savory crunch.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Pop your casserole into a 350ºF preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll want to watch for bubbling sauce along the edges and a nicely browned top. Baking brings everything together — the flavors meld and the parmesan crisps up delightfully. When done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving so it sets up and slices nicely.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I love to finish this casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley for that pop of color and freshness. A dusting of extra parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil right before serving also brings it up a notch. Sometimes, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that contrasts the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

My favorite sides with this casserole are always a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted garlic broccoli for a bit of veggie balance. Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls soak up leftovers sauce beautifully and are a crowd pleaser too.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this casserole straight out of individual ramekins topped with fresh herbs and a grated parmesan flourish — it feels a little fancier but keeps the cozy vibe. I’ve also layered with sliced fresh mozzarella in the middle for a super cheesy surprise that’s always a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole keeps really well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. I store mine in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil to retain moisture. The flavors actually improve a bit overnight, making it great for next-day lunches.

Freezing

I sometimes make a double batch and freeze half in a freezer-safe dish or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake just like fresh—adding a few minutes to the bake time if needed. It tastes surprisingly fresh and keeps mealtime hassle-free.

Reheating

To reheat, I cover leftovers with foil and bake at 350ºF until warmed through, which takes about 20-30 minutes depending on the amount. Avoid microwaving if you can—it often dries out the cheesy sauce. A low and slow oven heat preserves that creamy texture best.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe has become one of those I turn to when I want something that feels indulgent yet straightforward and satisfying. It’s a wonderful mix of creamy, cheesy, and meaty goodness that’s perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for busy weeks. I really think you’ll enjoy making it as much as eating it — it’s a real crowd-pleaser that never fails to comfort. So grab your cream cheese and spaghetti, and let’s make some kitchen magic happen!

Print