A Cheesy Comfort Dish That’s a Warm Hug on a Plate
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With layers of al dente spaghetti tossed in a rich cream cheese and sour cream sauce, then baked under a blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan—it’s everything you love about pasta, turned into a dreamy, bubbly masterpiece.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need something warm and indulgent!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧀 Creamy Center: The blend of cream cheese and sour cream creates a luscious, homemade Alfredo-style layer.
- 🍝 Pasta Perfection: Spaghetti soaks up all the richness without turning mushy.
- 🥩 Meat Option: Ground beef or sausage adds hearty depth (or skip it for a vegetarian version).
- ⏱️ Easy Baking: Just mix, toss, bake—no boiling separate sauces or complicated steps.
- 🎉 Crowd-Pleasing Classic: Ideal for kids, guests, or meal prep lunches.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Pasta Base:
- 8 oz spaghetti noodles (about 2 cups cooked)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese , softened (room temperature works best)
- ½ cup sour cream (adds tang and silkiness)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese , divided (¾ cup for mixing, ¼ cup for topping)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese , plus extra for garnish
Seasoning & Flavor:
- ½ tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Add-In:
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage (for extra protein and savory flavor)
- Fresh parsley or basil , chopped (for color and freshness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Cook Pasta
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Cook:
- Spaghetti noodles according to package instructions
- Drain and let cool slightly before tossing into the creamy mixture
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
In a large bowl, mix:
- Cream cheese
- Sour cream
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Beat until smooth and well combined.
Add:
- Half of the marinara sauce
- Cooked spaghetti
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
Toss gently until evenly coated.
Tip: If using meat, stir in now along with the sauce for even distribution.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Pour the creamy pasta mixture into the pan and spread evenly.
Top with:
- Remaining mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Sprinkle a bit more garlic powder or chili flakes for heat
Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly
Transfer to preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing—it helps the casserole hold its shape.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve Hot
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Serve hot with garlic bread, salad, or crusty rolls.
Each bite brings together:
- Silky cream cheese-sour cream base
- Rich, seasoned marinara sauce
- Stretchy, melted cheese topping
- And that comforting, familiar pasta hug
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Room-Temperature Dairy: Ensures smooth blending and no lumps.
- 🧁 Make Ahead Magic: Prepare the night before and refrigerate—bake just before serving.
- 🧀 Cheese Swap Option: Try Gouda or Monterey Jack for a milder finish.
- 🌱 Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat—or add mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Cool completely and freeze individual portions—reheat in microwave or oven.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect at school events, church dinners, or weeknight meals.
- Great with a side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables.
- Ideal with a cold drink like lemonade, beer, or iced tea.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings – approximate):
(With meat and regular cheese – per slice)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~35g
- Fat: ~22g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~5g
This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole proves that pasta doesn’t have to be boring—even when made in one pan! With its silky cheese layer, bold spices, and gooey finish—it’s a must-bake for any pasta lover.
So go ahead and make this tonight… because once you try it—you’ll be making it again and again!
