Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my all-time favorite comfort food: baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole! This dish is the ultimate cozy meal, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the heartiness of spaghetti. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I remember the first time I made this for my family; the look on their faces when they took the first bite was priceless. The way the creamy cream cheese melds with the marinara sauce creates a rich, luscious texture that makes you want to dive right in. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it’ll become a family favorite in your house too!
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Before you dive into cooking, let’s gather all the delicious ingredients we’ll need to make this creamy masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened to room temperature for easy mixing)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go, so you can mix it all together smoothly. Trust me, having your ingredients lined up makes the cooking process so much more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! I’ll walk you through each step to create this creamy, cheesy delight. Just follow along, and I promise you’ll have a mouthwatering casserole in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly. You want that cheese to melt just right and get all bubbly and golden on top!
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick! Once it’s cooked to perfection, drain the spaghetti and set it aside. Don’t forget to shake off any excess water—this helps keep the casserole from getting too watery.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, it’s time to whip up that creamy goodness! Start by adding the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of marinara sauce. Sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Using a whisk or a fork, mix these ingredients together until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. This is where the magic begins!
Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti
Now, let’s bring it all together! Take your cooked spaghetti and add it to the cream cheese mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated. You want every noodle to be enveloped in that luscious, creamy sauce. It’s okay to get a little messy here—just make sure it’s all combined nicely!
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grab a greased baking dish (I like using a 9×13 inch dish) and pour in your spaghetti mixture. Spread it out evenly so that it bakes uniformly. This step is key for getting that perfect golden crust on top!
Step 6: Add Cheese Toppings
Now for the best part—cheese! Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This is where things get extra cheesy and delicious, so don’t hold back!
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Ahh, the smell that fills your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps set everything and makes it easier to scoop out those perfect portions. Trust me, the anticipation will be worth it when you take that first bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Rich, creamy flavors that make every bite feel like a warm hug.
- Versatile enough to add your favorite cooked meats or veggies for a personal touch.
- Cheesy goodness with a bubbly, golden top that’s so inviting.
- Great for leftovers—just reheat and enjoy the next day!
- A family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love.
- Comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to bring smiles around the table.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make this delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole, here are some practical tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake—super convenient for busy evenings!
- Add Some Protein: Feel free to mix in cooked ground beef, turkey, or even sautéed veggies like spinach or bell peppers for an extra flavor boost. It’s a great way to customize the dish to your taste!
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses! Try adding some sharp cheddar or even a sprinkle of feta for a unique twist. The more cheese, the better, I say!
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or sauce to keep it from drying out.
- Freezing Tips: You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. It’s like having a homemade meal ready to go whenever you need it!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
FAQ about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Got questions about this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with helpful tips to make your cooking experience even better.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge—no need to thaw!
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with ricotta or cottage cheese. Just keep in mind that the texture and creaminess will differ a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of marinara sauce or water to keep it from drying out. It’ll still taste amazing!
Can I freeze the casserole?
What are some good serving suggestions?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, feel free to swap in your favorite gluten-free spaghetti! Just make sure to check the cooking instructions, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking times.
What if I want to make it spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture or stir in some diced jalapeños. It’ll give your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole an extra kick!
Hopefully, this FAQ helps you feel more confident in making this delicious dish. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional side of this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole! While I believe in enjoying food without too much fuss, it’s always good to know what’s in your meal. Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values for a standard serving size (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 14g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So if you swap out cheeses or add some extra veggies, the numbers might shift a bit. But no matter the stats, I promise this casserole will keep you satisfied and happy!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: 7 Comforting Steps
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy baked spaghetti casserole made with cream cheese, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix in cooked ground meat or vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole
