Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: A Comfort Food Favorite!

 

Looking for a creamy, cheesy, and meaty pasta dish that satisfies every craving? This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the perfect comfort food that combines the richness of cream cheese, the savory flavor of ground beef, and the gooeyness of melted mozzarella—all baked to perfection.

This is not just pasta—it’s a full meal that will become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions (Step-by-Step):

1. Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 9–11 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta—remember it will bake later too!

2. Make the Creamy Cheese Layer:

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix until smooth, creamy, and lump-free.

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked (about 7–10 minutes).
• Drain excess fat.
• Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Layer the Casserole:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
• Spread half of the cooked spaghetti on the bottom.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
• Spoon half of the meat sauce over the creamy layer.
• Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

5. Repeat:

• Add the remaining spaghetti.
• Top with the rest of the meat sauce.
• Sprinkle the final cup of mozzarella on top.

6. Bake:

• Place the dish in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
• Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with:

• Garlic bread
• A fresh green salad
• Roasted vegetables

Storage & Reheating:

• To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To freeze: Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• To reheat: Bake covered at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 21g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g

Tips and Variations:

• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
• Veggie version: Swap out beef for mushrooms or plant-based meat.
• Extra cheesy: Mix in Parmesan or ricotta for added richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Creamy, cheesy, meaty—everything you want in one bite!
• Crowd-pleasing dish for potlucks and family dinners
• Easy to prepare and even easier to reheat

Related Recipes:

• Creamy Baked Ziti
• Lasagna Roll-Ups
• Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake
• Stuffed Shells with Ricotta and Spinach