Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting, rich, and creamy twist on traditional baked spaghetti. The addition of cream cheese makes the sauce velvety and smooth, blending perfectly with the pasta and cheese. It’s an easy-to-make casserole that’s both hearty and satisfying, perfect for family dinners or a cozy weeknight meal. This dish is a crowd-pleaser with its cheesy, creamy goodness and can be customized with your favorite seasonings or protein. It’s a great option when you’re craving a cheesy, hearty pasta dish!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil (optional for covering while baking)
Ingredients Overview
- Spaghetti: The base of the dish is cooked spaghetti, which absorbs the creamy sauce and bakes to perfection.
- Cream Cheese Sauce: A combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and marinara sauce creates a creamy and tangy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
- Cheese: Shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses are used for a melty and golden topping.
- Seasonings: Basic seasonings like garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper bring the flavors together.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Ground beef or sausage, cooked and crumbled, for added protein
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or coat it with non-stick spray. - Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside. - Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix well until smooth. Add in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is fully combined and creamy. - Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese sauce mixture. Gently toss the pasta to ensure each strand is coated with the creamy sauce. - Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the coated spaghetti into the prepared baking dish. Spread the pasta evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. - Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. - Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Adding Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or even grilled chicken to the pasta before baking.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add 10–15 minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge.
- Extra Creaminess: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or more sour cream.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add some sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Garlic Bread: A classic side dish for pasta, garlic bread will soak up the creamy sauce and add a crispy texture to the meal.
- Green Salad: A simple side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini complement the creamy spaghetti and add a healthy side to the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can easily swap out regular pasta for gluten-free spaghetti. The sauce and baking process will work just the same!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the meat, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. After baking and cooling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a Side of Meatballs: For an Italian-inspired meal, serve alongside some homemade meatballs or Italian sausage.
- Pair with a Glass of Wine: A light white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, pairs well with the creaminess of the pasta.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting, rich, and creamy twist on traditional baked spaghetti. The addition of cream cheese makes the sauce velvety and smooth, blending perfectly with the pasta and cheese.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Ground beef or sausage cooked and crumbled, for added protein
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or coat it with non-stick spray.
- Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Mix well until smooth. Add in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is fully combined and creamy.
- Combine the Spaghetti and Sauce
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese sauce mixture. Gently toss the pasta to ensure each strand is coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the coated spaghetti into the prepared baking dish. Spread the pasta evenly in the dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
- Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
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