Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little oil.
2️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3️⃣ Mix the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Brown the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
5️⃣ Layer the Casserole:
In your greased baking dish:
- Add half of the spaghetti.
- Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Pour half of the marinara sauce over the cream cheese.
- Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Repeat with the remaining spaghetti, cream cheese, sauce, and cheeses.
6️⃣ Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7️⃣ Serve:
Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Casserole Success:
- Want extra flavor? Add chopped onions or mushrooms to the beef as it browns.
- Softer noodles? Use slightly undercooked pasta so it finishes cooking in the oven without going mushy.
- More creaminess? Mix a spoonful of sour cream or a splash of milk into the cream cheese mixture.
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:
- Ultra-Creamy: The cream cheese adds a rich, velvety layer you won’t get in standard spaghetti bakes.
- Hearty & Filling: Loaded with beef and cheese for a true comfort food experience.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it earlier in the day and just bake when ready!
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbs: ~38g
- Fat: ~22g
- Fiber: ~3g
FAQ About This Spaghetti Casserole:
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine also work well—just keep the pasta al dente.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely—just skip the ground beef or replace with lentils, plant-based crumbles, or sautéed mushrooms.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready, thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Troubleshooting & Tips:
- Cheese not melting well? Shred it yourself from a block—pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect melt.
- Too dry? Add a bit of reserved pasta water or more sauce to loosen before baking.
- Too greasy? Be sure to drain the beef well before layering.
Flavor Twists to Try:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
- Herby Upgrade: Add chopped fresh basil or thyme between layers.
Perfect For:
- Cozy weeknight meals
- Feeding a crowd
- Make-ahead dinners
- Potluck comfort food
- Leftovers that taste even better the next day!
The Ultimate Creamy Baked Pasta Dish:
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the pasta bake of your dreams—easy, cheesy, and sure to become a repeat request in your house. It’s everything you love about spaghetti, with a creamy twist that takes it over the top.
Tried it? Tag us—we want to see your cheesy casserole creations!
