Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti – The Ultimate Comfort Pasta Dish
If you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is about to become your new favorite comfort food. It’s the perfect mix of hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese, and baked pasta goodness. This dish is family-friendly, easy to prepare, and absolutely packed with flavor.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck crowd-pleaser, you’ll fall in love with every bite of this creamy baked spaghetti.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Ultra creamy and cheesy texture thanks to cream cheese and mozzarella.
- A complete meal in one dish – carbs, protein, and flavor.
- Kid-friendly and perfect for leftovers.
- Great for meal prepping or making ahead.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (about 24 oz) pasta sauce or marinara sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional but adds richness)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil the spaghetti in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook chopped onion until soft (about 3 minutes). Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
Add the pasta sauce to the skillet, along with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to develop flavor.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream (if using), and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth. You can use a hand mixer for a creamier result.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl or directly in the pot, combine the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture and mix until well coated.
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer as follows:
- First layer: cream cheese-coated spaghetti.
- Second layer: meat sauce.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or fresh basil on top for a pop of color.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Tips for Success:
- Make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t overcook the pasta – it will continue cooking in the oven.
- You can swap beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor.
How to Store and Reheat:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
- Freeze before baking if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Just thaw overnight and bake as instructed.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes! Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well too.
Q: Is it possible to make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Just skip the ground beef and use sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
A: Yes, add red chili flakes or mix in a spicy marinara sauce.