Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Recipes

Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

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When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty, creamy, and cheesy casserole. Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole combines the simplicity of classic spaghetti with a rich, velvety cream cheese layer, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners, as it’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and tastes like a warm hug on a plate.

The layers of pasta, creamy sauce, savory marinara, and melty cheese are sure to have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe!

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti:

  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional but adds extra creaminess)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Topping:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ricotta cheese (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  2. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
  3. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce.
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti.
  5. Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the cream cheese layer.
  6. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti. Spread evenly.

Step 5: Add the Topping

  1. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, and enjoy!

Tips

  1. Spaghetti Tips: Undercook your pasta slightly so it doesn’t become mushy while baking.
  2. Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
  3. Customizable Cheese: Use your favorite cheese blends, like cheddar, gouda, or fontina, for a unique flavor profile.
  4. Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and load the sauce with veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
  • Freeze: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Variations

  1. Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or hot Italian sausage for extra heat.
  2. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
  3. Low-Carb: Replace spaghetti with spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles.
  4. Cheesy Overload: Add a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese between the pasta layers for an extra cheesy casserole.

Nutrition Details

Per Serving (Approximate, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 460
  • Total Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 7g
  • Protein: 22g

FAQ

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine work well in this casserole.

Can I skip the cream cheese layer?

You can, but the cream cheese layer is what makes this casserole unique and ultra-creamy. Consider replacing it with a béchamel sauce or a layer of ricotta for a different texture.

Can I make this in a smaller dish?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the ingredient quantities. A smaller dish may result in thicker layers, so ensure everything cooks evenly.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are perfect accompaniments.