If you’re craving a comfort food that feels both indulgent and satisfying, the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender spaghetti with a creamy blend of cream cheese and sour cream, married to flavorful ground beef simmered in rich marinara sauce, all topped with bubbly golden mozzarella. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm, hearty hug on a plate that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe promises layers of creamy, cheesy, and meaty goodness that you’ll love sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance of taste and texture is simple with just a handful of ingredients that work beautifully together. Each element plays a crucial role—whether it’s the creamy richness, the comforting pasta, or the savory beef sauce, every ingredient adds depth and color to this classic baked dish.
- Spaghetti: The classic pasta foundation that holds all the creamy and meaty goodness.
- Cream cheese: Adds a smooth, velvety texture and mild tang that elevates the sauce.
- Sour cream: Works with the cream cheese to create a luscious, rich creaminess.
- Ground beef: Provides hearty flavor and a satisfying protein element.
- Marinara sauce: Infuses the dish with classic Italian tomato flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory note that complements the meat and sauce.
- Italian seasoning: Gives an herby, aromatic lift that ties all the flavors together.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into a golden, bubbly topping that makes the dish irresistible.
- Salt and pepper: Enhances and balances every flavor.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the perfect temperature by the time you’re ready to bake your layered masterpiece. This step ensures a beautifully even bake.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente—this means it should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain it well to avoid extra moisture that can weigh down the dish later.
Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whip together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy. This blend will be your luscious layer that melts delightfully into the pasta, adding richness and tang.
Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy but still flavorful and robust.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Seasonings
Stir the marinara sauce into the beef along with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, letting it simmer for about five minutes. This melding of flavors creates a savory, herb-infused sauce that complements the creamy layers beautifully. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Grab a baking dish and start with half of the spaghetti as the bottom layer. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pasta, then spoon the beef sauce on top. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layering—spaghetti, cream cheese blend, beef sauce, and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Watch as the cheese bubbles and turns a gorgeous golden brown, signaling that your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is perfectly cooked and ready to be devoured.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a bright pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness wonderfully. Grated Parmesan cheese on the side can offer an extra salty kick for those who love a cheesy boost.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to bring a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are also perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering in individual ramekins for personal servings – it makes for a charming presentation and perfect portion control. You can also add a colorful vegetable layer such as sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or dinners that don’t skimp on flavor.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! Prepare and bake as usual, then cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly, approximately 15-20 minutes, to retain that lovely baked texture. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the cheese topping a bit more than baking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works best for weaving through the creamy layers, penne or rigatoni can be excellent substitutes because they hold sauce well and provide a nice bite.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and substitute it with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. The cream cheese and marinara sauce will keep the dish rich and satisfying.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
It’s possible by using dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream alternatives, and vegan mozzarella substitutes. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Incorporate finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini into the beef sauce while it simmers, or layer in roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
What is the best way to ensure the cheese melts perfectly on top?
Using freshly shredded mozzarella rather than pre-shredded helps it melt evenly and create that gorgeous golden crust. Also, baking uncovered at 350°F ensures it bubbles and browns nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is truly a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that brings creamy, cheesy comfort to your table with no fuss. Perfect for sharing any day of the week, it’s one of those recipes that once you try, you’ll want to keep coming back to. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite with the people you love!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pasta Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti combines tender spaghetti noodles with a creamy blend of cream cheese and sour cream, layered with savory ground beef marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfectly baked until golden and bubbly, this comforting casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound of spaghetti
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of sour cream
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) ensuring it’s ready for baking the casserole.
- Cook Spaghetti: Prepare the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Brown Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Make Meat Sauce: Stir marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning into the cooked beef, then simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to let flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Layer Ingredients: In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, spread the cream cheese mixture over it, then top with the beef sauce and sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers ending with mozzarella on top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, signaling that the dish is ready to serve.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti to adjust for dietary preferences.
- Let the baked casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and make slicing easier.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meat option.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened before blending to achieve a smooth mixture without lumps.
