Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
If you’re craving something rich, creamy, cheesy, and soul-soothing, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This dish combines the best of Italian flavors with American comfort food vibes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this easy yet indulgent casserole will become your go-to favorite.
Let’s dive into the full recipe, including pro tips, storage ideas, and variations to customize it just the way you like.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225g) spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz / 680g) marinara sauce
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage (optional but recommended)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil the spaghetti in salted water until just al dente. Drain it well and set aside to cool slightly. Avoid overcooking, as it will bake more in the oven.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir or whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Meat
Pour the marinara sauce into the creamy mixture and stir until fully combined. If you’re using cooked ground beef or sausage, fold it in now. This step adds hearty, savory depth.
Step 5: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl. Gently toss to coat all the noodles in the creamy tomato sauce. Mix in half of the shredded mozzarella.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the spaghetti mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and all the Parmesan over the top.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Step 8: Let It Rest & Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:
- Use room-temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps when mixing.
- Add red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.
- Want extra veggies? Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach and mix them in with the sauce.
- Swap proteins: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground meat.
- Double the recipe and freeze one casserole for later — it reheats beautifully.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until hot, or microwave individual servings.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
(Based on 8 servings, with meat)
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Perfect for weeknights and leftovers
- Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
- Easily customizable for dietary preferences
- Balanced between creamy, savory, and cheesy
- Great for feeding a crowd or freezing for busy nights
Looking for More Cheesy Pasta Dishes?
Try these next: Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
- Creamy Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti
- Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
- Three-Cheese Lasagna Rolls
- One-Pot Cheeseburger Pasta