This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a cozy dish that’s easy to love. With creamy cheese and pasta baked together, every bite is warm and comforting!
I love how this casserole makes a great family meal. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! Plus, it’s always a hit on busy evenings since you can prepare it ahead of time. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Traditional wheat pasta works perfectly here. If you’re gluten-free, you can opt for gluten-free spaghetti or even use zucchini noodles for a lighter twist!
Ground Beef: I usually use lean ground beef, but turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for a healthier option. For a vegetarian version, you could swap in lentils or your favorite meat substitute.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese gives that rich creaminess! If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based cream cheese. Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, but it’ll change the flavor a bit.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is a must for that melty layer, but feel free to mix in cheddar for extra flavor. And if you want a fancy touch, try using goat cheese!
How Do You Ensure Every Bite is Creamy and Cheesy?
Mixing the cream cheese and sour cream into the spaghetti is essential to achieve that creamy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Soften the cream cheese first by letting it sit at room temperature or briefly microwaving it. This makes it easier to blend.
- When mixing, make sure to incorporate the cream cheese mixture thoroughly—this speeds up melting in the oven and avoids clumps.
- Layering the cheese is also key! Spread half the spaghetti mixture, add cheese, then top with the rest of the mixture before baking for even cheesiness.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to bake, making it a total of about 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Brown the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat!
4. Mix in the Sauce:
Now, stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Combine the Cream Cheese:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. This adds that amazing creaminess to your casserole!
6. Mix Everything Together:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the meat sauce and stir well to combine. Next, fold in the cream cheese mixture until everything is evenly coated.
7. Layer the Mixture:
Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Then, layer the remaining spaghetti mixture over this and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. To finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Enjoy your warm, creamy, cheesy spaghetti casserole!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free spaghetti made from rice or quinoa, which works just as well in this recipe!
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives. You could also use lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat for a delicious vegetarian dish.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover spaghetti casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist as you reheat!
