Get ready to fall in love with this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole , a creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Packed with rich flavors, gooey cheeses, and tender spaghetti, this casserole is a hug in a dish that everyone will rave about. Optional ground beef or sausage adds a savory twist, while fresh parsley brings a pop of color to the table. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Comfort Food Magic: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—this dish is pure comfort on a plate.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for feeding a family or bringing to gatherings—it’s always a hit!
- Customizable: Add your favorite proteins, veggies, or spices to make it your own.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8):
- 8 oz spaghetti 🍝
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese , softened 🧀
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese , divided 🧀
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- ½ cup sour cream 🥄
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿
- ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper 🌶️
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce 🍅
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage (optional, for added flavor ) 🍖
- Fresh parsley , chopped (optional, for garnish ) 🌿
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti 🍝
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce 🥄
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese , sour cream , garlic powder , Italian seasoning , salt , and black pepper . Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and mix well. If using, fold in the cooked ground beef or sausage for extra flavor.
Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti 🍝🧀
- Gently toss the cooked spaghetti into the creamy sauce mixture, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
- Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy base.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole ✋
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese for a golden, melty finish.
Step 6: Bake ⏳
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve 🍴
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, for a touch of freshness and color.
- Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy masterpiece!
💡 Tips for Success:
- Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meat and use vegetable marinara sauce for a plant-based option.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.
⏰ Time Breakdown:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Makes 8):
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a dream come true for pasta lovers. With its creamy texture, melty cheese, and rich marinara flavor, it’s a dish that warms both the heart and the soul. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Top it with fresh parsley, dig in, and savor the ultimate comfort food experience—it’s pure cheesy bliss!
