Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti noodles; Salt for boiling water; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce; 1 lb ground beef; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

by Isabella Reed Published: August 30, 2025

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven! This dish feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. I remember the first time I made it for my family. The rich, creamy sauce bubbling away in the oven filled the house with an aroma that had everyone flocking to the kitchen. You can practically taste the love in every bite! It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, and trust me, it has a way of bringing everyone together around the table.

What I adore about this casserole is that it’s not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to whip up! Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a potluck, this dish fits the bill. It combines the classic Italian flavors of spaghetti with the cozy creaminess of cream cheese, creating a dreamy, cheesy delight that’s hard to resist. Seriously, just wait until you dig in!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven! - detail 1

What Makes Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven?

This casserole stands out for its velvety texture and satisfying flavor combinations. First off, the cream cheese melds perfectly with the marinara sauce, creating a rich and creamy base that clings to every strand of spaghetti. Then, you have the savory ground beef and aromatic garlic, adding depth and heartiness. Topped with gooey melted mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s a cheese lover’s dream come true! Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that feels indulgent yet comforting, making it a delicious centerpiece for any meal.

Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven!

Let me tell you, this dish is a total game changer! Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven! is not just a mouthwatering meal; it’s a lifesaver when you’re juggling a busy schedule. You can whip it up in about 45 minutes, and it serves a crowd! It’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests at a potluck. The best part? It’s all baked in one dish, so you’ll have less mess to clean up afterward. Trust me, you’ll be grateful for that!

Perfect for Any Occasion

This casserole is so versatile! Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, it fits right in. You can even make it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. This means you can spend more time enjoying the company and less time in the kitchen. And if you have leftovers? They’re just as tasty the next day, making it a perfect dish for meal prep or lunchboxes!

Comfort Food at Its Finest

Oh, let’s talk about the comfort factor! There’s something incredibly satisfying about digging into a warm, cheesy casserole after a long day. The creamy layers and hearty beef come together to create a dish that’s not just food; it’s pure love on a plate. Every bite warms you from the inside out, making it a go-to for those chilly evenings when you just want to snuggle up and indulge. I promise, once you’ve tasted this, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven!

Detailed Ingredient List

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy, dreamy casserole:

12 oz spaghetti noodles, uncooked – You can use any brand you like, just make sure they’re al dente when you cook them.
Salt for boiling water – A little salt goes a long way in enhancing the flavor of the pasta.
8 oz cream cheese, softened – It’s best to let it sit out for a bit so it mixes in smoothly.
1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce – Pick your favorite! Homemade is fantastic, but store-bought works great too.
1 lb ground beef – You can swap this for ground turkey or even plant-based meat for a lighter option.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a lovely aroma and flavor, but pre-minced works in a pinch!
1 tsp Italian seasoning – This brings all those lovely herbs together for a flavorful punch.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The gooier, the better! Feel free to use a mix of cheeses if you want.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds that extra cheesy goodness and a touch of saltiness.
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven!

Preparing the Pasta

First things first, let’s get that pasta going! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add in your 12 oz of uncooked spaghetti noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want them firm because they’ll continue cooking in the oven later. Once they’re done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you whip up the sauce.

Making the Meat Sauce Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your 1 lb of ground beef. Brown it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nice and cooked through. Make sure to break it up with a spatula while it cooks! Once the beef is browned, toss in the 2 minced cloves of garlic and 1 tsp of Italian seasoning. Sauté for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. Now, here’s where the magic happens: add in your 8 oz of softened cream cheese and the 24 oz jar of marinara sauce. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Wow, the aroma is to die for!

Combining and Baking

Now it’s time to bring all this deliciousness together! In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy meat sauce mixture. Give it a good stir to ensure every noodle is coated in that heavenly sauce. Transfer the entire mixture into a greased baking dish. Now, sprinkle the top with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Yum! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and once it’s ready, pop the casserole in for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that glorious bubbly, golden cheese on top. When it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Trust me, it’s worth the wait! You’ll love it!

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Variations of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven!

Add Vegetables for Extra Flavor

Feeling adventurous? You can easily amp up the flavor and nutrition of your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven by adding some vegetables! Try tossing in bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. Just sauté them along with the ground beef for a few minutes before mixing in the cream cheese and marinara sauce. You’ll get a lovely crunch and pop of color, plus it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for the kids (or yourself!). Seriously, the more, the merrier!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a lighter twist on this dish, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. It’s still packed with flavor but has fewer calories and fat. Also, for those who are gluten-sensitive, you can swap out the regular spaghetti noodles for gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions, as they can vary. These simple swaps allow you to enjoy the same creamy goodness while being a bit kinder to your waistline!

Serving and Storage Tips for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven!

How to Serve

When it comes to serving this glorious casserole, a little garnish goes a long way! Just before you dish it out, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness. It’s amazing how that little bit of green makes everything pop! Pair your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven! with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to really round out the meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, but also impressive enough for guests at a potluck. Trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Storing Leftovers

Lucky you if you have leftovers because this casserole is just as delicious the next day! To store, let it cool to room temperature, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is melty again. If you want to freeze it, you can store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Easy peasy!

Helpful Notes on Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven!

Nutritional Information Overview

So, let’s chat about nutrition! Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven! is definitely a comforting dish, but there are ways to make it fit into various dietary needs. If you’re looking to lighten things up, using ground turkey or swapping in gluten-free pasta can help reduce calories and make it more accessible. Plus, if you’re keeping an eye on your sodium intake, you can opt for low-sodium marinara sauce. With a few simple tweaks, you can enjoy this creamy delight while being mindful of your health!

Cooking Times and Techniques

When it comes to baking, keep an eye on your casserole as it cooks! You want that cheese to be bubbly and golden, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). If you find that the edges are browning too quickly, just cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning. And remember, if you accidentally overcook it, don’t fret! A splash of marinara sauce on top can bring back some moisture. If you undercook it, just pop it back in the oven for a few extra minutes. You’ve got this!

Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the best things about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven! is how convenient it is for meal prep. You can prepare the entire casserole up to a day in advance. Just follow the instructions up to the point of baking, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, remove the cover and bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!

Can I freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven?

Yes! Freezing this casserole is a fantastic option for those busy nights when you need a quick dinner. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Easy, right? Now you can have a taste of comfort food anytime you want!

Final Thoughts on Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven!

So there you have it, my dear friends! Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven! is truly a dish that brings joy and comfort to any table. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and gooey cheese, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds (or thirds!). Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a cozy gathering, or just to treat yourself, I promise this casserole will warm your heart and fill your belly with happiness.

Don’t wait too long to try this recipe – I can’t wait for you to experience the magic for yourself! Grab your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and let’s get cooking! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so be sure to share your thoughts and any fun variations you come up with. Happy cooking!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole