Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole! This is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The creamy texture from the cream cheese and sour cream, combined with the melty mozzarella, creates a blissfully rich experience that you just can’t resist. And the best part? It’s super easy to whip up! Whether I’m in a hurry or just craving something comforting, this casserole comes to the rescue every time. I love how the spaghetti soaks up all the flavors from the marinara sauce, making every bite a delightful explosion of taste. Trust me, once you try this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole, it’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature for easier mixing)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for that gooey, melty topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a nice salty kick)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade will work wonders)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (a little flavor boost)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this step, it brings everything together!)
How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and gets that gorgeous, bubbly top we all love!
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Next, boil a pot of water and cook your 8 oz of spaghetti according to the package instructions. You’ll want it al dente, so it holds up well in the casserole. Once it’s done, drain it thoroughly—this step is crucial! No one wants a watery casserole, right?
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened 8 oz of cream cheese, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 tsp of garlic powder, and 1 tsp of Italian seasoning. Mix it all together until you have a smooth and creamy texture. Trust me, this is where the magic begins!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, you’ll fold in the cooked spaghetti and 2 cups of marinara sauce into your cream cheese mixture. Make sure everything gets coated nicely—this is where all those flavors meld together, and it’s oh-so-satisfying!
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grab your favorite baking dish and transfer the spaghetti mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so every bite is just as delicious as the next. You want that perfect layer!
Step 6: Add Cheese Toppings
Now for the fun part—let’s add some cheese! Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan on top. This will create a wonderfully gooey and golden crust that’s just irresistible!
Step 7: Bake
Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden on top. Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Trust me, the anticipation is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish!
- Unbelievably creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Delicious flavor that combines rich cream cheese with tangy marinara.
- Customizable—add in your favorite vegetables or cooked meats for an extra twist.
- Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy weeknights.
- Kid-friendly and comforting, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Tips for Success with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Alright, folks, if you want to take your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole to the next level, I’ve got some pro tips just for you!
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This makes it way easier to blend with the other ingredients, resulting in a super smooth and creamy texture. You don’t want any lumps, trust me!
- Cook Spaghetti Al Dente: When you cook your spaghetti, aim for al dente. This way, the pasta holds its shape and doesn’t get mushy after baking. A little bite is what you’re after!
- Let It Rest: After baking, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, it gives all those flavors a chance to mingle even more!
- Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to add in your favorite veggies or cooked meats. Spinach, bell peppers, or even leftover chicken can elevate this dish and make it your own!
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, sprinkle some on top before serving. It adds a lovely burst of flavor and a pop of color!
- Keep an Eye on the Cheese: Baking times can vary by oven, so keep an eye on your cheese. You want it bubbly and golden, but not burnt! If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds, if you’re lucky!). Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite!
Nutritional Information for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole! While it’s packed with flavor and comfort, it’s also good to know what you’re eating. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind these are estimates, and actual values can vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 12g
This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is a satisfying meal that can definitely fit into a balanced diet. Just remember, if you want to lighten it up a bit, you can always swap in some lower-fat ingredients or add more veggies to the mix. Enjoy your cheesy goodness guilt-free!
FAQ about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is how well it lends itself to meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving. Just assemble all the ingredients in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just remove the cover and bake as directed. If it’s been sitting in the fridge for a while, you might want to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can absolutely customize this casserole to suit your taste. Try adding some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a nutritious boost. If you’re a meat lover, cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even ground beef can take it to the next level. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly if using raw meat. You might also consider tossing in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for an extra burst of flavor!
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheating leftovers is a breeze! You can simply pop your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until it’s warmed through. Cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to see if it’s hot enough. Just be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the creamy goodness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is super simple and a great way to enjoy this dish again later! First, make sure the casserole has cooled down to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. If you have a larger portion, you can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil—just ensure it’s sealed well to keep the flavors intact. This casserole will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to indulge in those delicious leftovers, reheating is key to keeping that creamy texture just right. The best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil to prevent the top from getting too brown. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you’re short on time, the microwave is a quick alternative! Just place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat on medium for about 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s warmed evenly. Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might lose that delightful creaminess!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole all week long, making mealtime a breeze!
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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: 3 Irresistible Tips
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
- Add cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add vegetables or cooked meat for extra flavor.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole
