Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful dish that combines creamy cheese and hearty pasta in one easy-to-make meal. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where comfort food is a hit. The standout feature of this casserole is its rich layers of flavor, from the savory ground beef to the gooey cream cheese, making it indulgent yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious casserole in the oven in no time.
• Comforting Flavor: The creamy cheese and savory meat sauce create a comforting dish that everyone will love.
• Feeds a Crowd: Perfectly portioned to serve 12, it’s great for family gatherings or meal prepping for the week.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the ingredients, adding your favorite vegetables or substituting different meats.
• Easy Cleanup: With all the goodness baked in one pan, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking spaghetti evenly and preventing it from sticking together.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning ground beef and enhancing its flavor before adding to the casserole.
• Mixing bowl: Helps you combine ingredients easily without mess.
• Baking pan: Ideal for holding all the layers of this delicious casserole while it bakes to perfection.

Ingredients

To create this scrumptious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz spaghetti

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• A pinch of garlic salt

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 8 oz package of softened cream cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prepare for layering your casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
* Add the spaghetti and cook until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes.
* Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

While your pasta cooks:
* Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
* Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes.
* Drain excess fat and stir in spaghetti sauce.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once your spaghetti is cooked:
* Drain it well and transfer it into a mixing bowl.
* Add softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt.
* Stir until cream cheese is melted and pasta is evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Now it’s time to layer:
* Spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom of your greased baking pan.
* Place the cheesy spaghetti mixture on top followed by the remaining meat sauce.
* Finally, sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses over everything.

Bake in your preheated oven until bubbly for about 30 minutes. Enjoy your comforting Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole!

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a deliciously rich dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crisp and buttery garlic bread complements the creamy casserole perfectly, offering a delightful crunch.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.

Add Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or green beans can provide a colorful and nutritious side that balances the richness of the dish.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with chopped parsley or basil for an aromatic touch that elevates the flavor profile.

Enjoy with a Light Beverage

• Pair this casserole with sparkling water or iced tea for a refreshing drink option that won’t overshadow the meal.

How to Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

To make sure your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh ground beef and good-quality spaghetti sauce will enhance the overall taste.
• Don’t overcook spaghetti: Make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente so it maintains its texture when baked.
• Mix well: Ensure that cream cheese is completely melted and evenly combined with spaghetti for consistent creaminess throughout.
• Layer correctly: Spread some meat sauce at the bottom before adding spaghetti and topping off with sauce; this helps prevent sticking.
• Check for doneness: Bake until bubbly and slightly golden on top; this indicates optimum flavor and texture.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set, making it easier to slice.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus
   Tender asparagus roasted in garlic oil brings out natural flavors while adding a healthy touch.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan cheese and croutons tossed in Caesar dressing offers a classic pairing.
3. Caprese Salad Skewers
   Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a vibrant appetizer.
4. Cheesy Breadsticks
   Homemade or store-bought cheesy breadsticks provide an irresistible cheesy complement that everyone loves.
5. Zucchini Noodles
   Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that adds freshness without overpowering the main dish.
6. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and tanginess, balancing out the creamy casserole beautifully.
7. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices make for an excellent side filled with flavor.
8. Italian Herb Focaccia
   Soft focaccia bread infused with herbs can be served warm as a delightful addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure a perfect dish every time.

• Using cold cream cheese – Cold cream cheese doesn’t blend well. Always soften it before mixing to achieve a creamy texture.
• Overcooking spaghetti – Overcooked pasta leads to mushiness. Cook until al dente for the best texture in your casserole.
• Skipping seasoning – A lack of seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to add Italian seasoning and garlic salt for flavor.
• Not greasing the pan – A sticky casserole is frustrating. Always lightly grease your baking pan to prevent sticking.
• Ignoring baking time – Underbaking can lead to a watery casserole. Bake until bubbly to ensure all flavors meld perfectly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual portions on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole.

What is Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting dish featuring layers of spaghetti, ground beef, creamy sauce, and cheese, baked until bubbly.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb instead of beef based on your preference.

How do I customize my Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap cheeses according to your taste!

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready!

Final Thoughts

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Its creamy texture combined with flavorful ingredients makes it perfect for any family dinner. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins—this recipe adapts beautifully to suit your taste!