This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is a cozy dish that’s sure to make everyone smile! Creamy cheese blends perfectly with the pasta and a tasty sauce.
It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with a sprinkle of parsley on top. Trust me, your family will keep asking for seconds—it’s that good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: This recipe calls for traditional spaghetti, but you can swap it out for any pasta shape you love! Penne or rotini work well too, and they catch sauce beautifully.
Ground Beef: If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken are great substitutes. You can even use cooked sausage for added flavor, or go meatless with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese adds incredible creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, consider using cashew cream or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. I’ve found almond cream works nicely!
Cheeses: Use whole mozzarella for a great melt. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese is a good substitute. It may change the texture slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make Sure My Casserole is Creamy and Not Dry?
The key to a creamy baked spaghetti casserole is to ensure proper moisture throughout. Make sure your cream cheese and ricotta are well blended before mixing them with the spaghetti. Here’s how:
- Use softened cream cheese; it blends easier. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
- Don’t skip the marinara sauce! It adds moisture and flavor to the casserole. Stir it well with the cooked beef before layering.
- Consider covering the casserole with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to trap steam and keep it moist.
- Let it rest after baking. This allows the casserole to set up and helps keep it creamy when you serve!
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 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 ricotta cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes for a delightful, comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light greasing with cooking spray or butter to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
While your oven heats up, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s al dente (which means it should have a little bite to it). Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside for now.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re soft and fragrant—your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink, making sure to break it into small pieces as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off so your casserole isn’t too greasy.
5. Mix in the Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the marinara or spaghetti sauce and heat everything through for a few minutes. Once it’s warmed, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
6. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ricotta cheese along with salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s all smooth and creamy—this is going to be the magic that ties it all together!
7. Combine the Spaghetti:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture and gently toss until each strand is coated and creamy. It’s going to look and smell fabulous!
8. Layer the Casserole:
In your greased baking dish, spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly across the bottom. Top it with half of the meat sauce mixture. Then, use the rest of the spaghetti and layer it on top, followed by the remainder of the meat sauce on the very top.
9. Add the Cheesy Goodness:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of the casserole. Cheese means comfort!
10. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake it uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and a little golden brown.
11. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the layers set a bit. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and then serve warm to enjoy!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your creamy, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole! It’s comfort food that warms the heart and fills the belly! 🍽️
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthier option and can be used in the same amount as regular spaghetti. For gluten-free diets, choose a gluten-free pasta; just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package since cooking times might vary.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Casserole?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic before mixing them in with the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition!
What Can I Serve With This Casserole?
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you like a bit of heat!
