There’s just something magical about digging into a bubbly, golden-baked dish of Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Each forkful brings you swirls of tender pasta wrapped in velvety, cheesy goodness and layered with a rich, herb-scented meat sauce. This recipe packs all the best comfort food feelings into one crowd-pleasing bake, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a cozy pasta fix. Whether you’re a long-time casserole lover or new to this crave-worthy classic, Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole will quickly become your favorite weeknight secret weapon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part? The ingredient list for Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is refreshingly straightforward, yet every item plays an important role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture. A handful of everyday staples come together to make a creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious meal you won’t soon forget.
- Spaghetti (12 oz): The foundation of this casserole, cooked just to al dente so it holds its texture in the bake.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds richness and helps brown the beef for deeper flavor.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Brings hearty, savory notes and substance to every bite—try swapping in Italian sausage for a fun twist.
- Yellow onion, diced (1 small): Infuses natural sweetness once sautéed and rounds out the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Lends that essential punch that makes the entire casserole sing.
- Marinara or pasta sauce (1 jar/24 oz): Forms the saucy, tomato-rich backdrop—choose your favorite for a personalized touch.
- Italian seasoning (½ tsp): Unifies the flavors with that unmistakable Italian herb aroma.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances and balances all the delicious elements in the dish.
- Black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds a gentle heat and rounds out the spice profile.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Brings the creamy, tangy magic that sets this casserole apart from all the rest.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Lightens and brightens the cream cheese mixture, making it ultra silky.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melty, nutty goodness that deepens the savory flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): That iconic gooey, golden cheese crown everybody loves.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and a crisp finish right before serving.
How to Make Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a little olive oil—this helps ensure your Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole releases easily and cooks evenly around the edges.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and drop in the spaghetti. Cook it until it’s al dente, following the package directions—this will prevent your noodles from becoming mushy after baking. Drain and set aside while you get everything else ready.
Step 3: Make the Savory Meat Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and crumbly. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for another three minutes or so until softened and fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer for about five minutes to develop rich, well-blended flavors. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Mix the Cheesy Base
In a big mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and grated Parmesan. Beat or stir until the mixture is creamy and smooth—this can take a minute, but it’s worth it for that dreamy, melty result. Add the drained spaghetti and toss well, making sure every strand is fully coated with the cheesy mixture.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Now for the fun part! Start by spreading half of the savory meat sauce into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Next, arrange the cream cheese-coated spaghetti in an even layer over the sauce. Top with the remaining meat sauce, and finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella generously over everything for that signature cheese pull.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. When you pull it out, wait just 5 to 10 minutes before cutting in—this helps the layers set up, making serving much easier.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Garnishes
Right before serving, sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley over your Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. Not only does it add bright color, but it also offers a crisp, garden-fresh contrast to the rich, creamy layers underneath. If you’re feeling extra, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or some cracked black pepper is always welcome.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette or some garlicky sautéed veggies. Of course, a basket of warm, crusty bread or classic garlic bread on the side never hurts—you’ll want something to mop up that irresistible sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners, I love serving Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole straight from the baking dish for that charming, homey vibe. For guests, try spooning portions into individual ramekins before baking, or layering the casserole in a large ovenproof skillet for a rustic look. You can even use mini casserole dishes for personalized servings that make any weeknight feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftovers? Lucky you! Place cooled slices of the casserole in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors only get better as they mingle, making this a fantastic lunch or speedy dinner option throughout the week.
Freezing
To freeze Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, simply assemble the dish but skip the baking step. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra ten minutes if needed.
Reheating
For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered, until hot all the way through. To reheat a larger portion or the whole casserole, cover it with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until bubbling—about 20 minutes. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the cheesy top.
FAQs
Can I make Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole up to a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights or entertaining.
Is it possible to use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can swap in any long pasta you love, such as linguine or fettuccine. Even penne or rotini work well—they’ll just create a slightly different texture but still soak up all that creamy, cheesy goodness.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or Italian sausage are tasty alternatives that work perfectly in this casserole. Even a plant-based ground meat option can shine here if you want to make Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian-friendly.
How do I keep the cream cheese mixture from clumping?
Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing and combine it thoroughly with sour cream and Parmesan until smooth. Toss the hot, drained pasta immediately in the mixture so it melts into a silky coating.
Is Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole spicy?
As written, the casserole is flavorful but mild. If you love a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or sprinkle a spicy cheese blend on top before baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and completely comforting, I hope you’ll give Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole a try. It’s a guaranteed weeknight winner that always leaves a table full of smiles—so gather your loved ones and enjoy every creamy, cozy bite!
Print
Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of this Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, a comforting and cheesy baked pasta dish that will satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients
Spaghetti:
12 oz spaghetti
Olive Oil Mixture:
1 tbsp olive oil
Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef, 1 small yellow onion (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce, ½ tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
Cream Cheese Mixture:
8 oz cream cheese (softened), ¼ cup sour cream, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: Brown ground beef in a skillet, add onion and garlic, then stir in marinara sauce and seasonings. Simmer and set aside.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: Combine cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Toss cooked spaghetti in this mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Layer meat sauce, cream cheese-coated spaghetti, and remaining meat sauce in the baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let rest before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef.
- For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- This casserole freezes well—assemble ahead and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
