This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for family dinners. It combines creamy spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, all baked to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce (or homemade)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For Baking:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and toss with cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese until well coated. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until soft.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, layer half of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add the cream cheese spaghetti mixture on top.
- Pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Spaghetti Casserole
✔ Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for extra flavor.
✔ Make it ahead! Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate overnight.
✔ Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for more texture.
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!