Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

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Here’s a Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole recipe—a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta bake that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks!

Introduction
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender spaghetti, rich cream cheese, savory marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Boil spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Assemble the Casserole:
  • Spread half the cooked spaghetti in the baking dish.
  • Dollop the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti and spread evenly.
  • Top with the remaining spaghetti, then pour the meat sauce over it.
  • Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  1. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs.

Tips for Success

  • Cream Cheese Softening: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Add Veggies: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if cold.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with garlic bread and a crisp green salad.
  • Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Info (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbs: 35g
  • Protein: 25g

Conclusion
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. With its layers of flavor and gooey cheese topping, it’s comfort food at its finest!

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