If you are craving a cozy, comforting meal that brings together creamy, cheesy bliss with classic spaghetti, you are in for a real treat. This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that takes simple pantry staples and transforms them into a luscious, oven-baked dish full of rich flavor and satisfying textures. With a creamy tomato sauce that hugs every strand of spaghetti, melted mozzarella and Parmesan topping, and a hint of Italian herbs, this casserole is perfect for feeding a family or impressing friends with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this casserole is straightforward, and each item plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and texture. From the creamy richness of the cream cheese to the savory depth of Italian seasoning, these familiar ingredients come together beautifully to create a comforting meal you will want to make again and again.
- Spaghetti (1 lb): The backbone of the dish providing perfect pasta strands to soak up the sauce.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Adds luscious creaminess and tang that make the sauce irresistibly smooth.
- Tomato sauce (15 oz can): Brings vibrant tomato flavor and a silky base for the creamy sauce.
- Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz can, drained): Adds texture and fresh tomato bursts throughout the casserole.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Enhances richness, making the sauce silky and decadent; milk works for a lighter option.
- Italian seasoning (1 tbsp): Brings fragrant herbs like oregano and basil to brighten the dish.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses the recipe with comforting garlic warmth without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1 tsp): Adds subtle savory depth and rounds out the flavor profile.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp, optional): Gives a gentle kick of heat for those who love a little spice.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): Creates a gooey, melty topping that’s golden and irresistible.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds nutty sharpness and helps create a lovely crust on top.
- Ground beef or sausage (1/2 lb, optional): For an extra protein boost and hearty flavor addition.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): Bright, fresh herbs to garnish and add a pop of color.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside—it’s important that the spaghetti is not overcooked so it holds its shape well in the casserole.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, tomato sauce, and drained diced tomatoes. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you are using them. Keep stirring occasionally until the cream cheese has melted completely and the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and luscious. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Step 3: Add Protein (Optional)
If you want to add a savory touch and extra protein to your dish, brown the ground beef or sausage in a separate skillet until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then fold the cooked meat into the creamy tomato sauce, mixing well for even flavor distribution.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese sauce (and meat, if using) until every strand is evenly coated in that rich, creamy goodness. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top, ensuring a nice blanket of cheese that will melt perfectly in the oven.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt fully and turn a beautiful golden color with bubbling edges. For those who love a crispy, browned cheese crust, turn on the broiler for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once your casserole comes out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve. Before digging in, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a vibrant, fresh finish that also adds a lovely aroma.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are excellent choices to sprinkle on top before serving—they add a burst of green color and fresh flavor that balances the richness of the casserole. You can also add a little extra grated Parmesan or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as the star of the meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette is a wonderful complement. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices work beautifully to scoop up any leftover sauce and add some crunchy texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation perfect for dinner parties or family meals. You can also layer in some fresh mozzarella slices before baking for pockets of melty cheese throughout the dish, elevating the experience even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe leftovers store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you reheat, the sauce will stay creamy and the cheese will still taste fresh—just make sure to cover the dish to keep it from drying out.
Freezing
This casserole freezes surprisingly well, making it a great option for preparing in advance. After baking and cooling completely, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap before placing in the freezer. For best quality, enjoy within 2 to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through—usually about 20 minutes. For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last few minutes of reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works perfectly for this recipe, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or even rotini. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it retains a nice texture after baking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, simply omit the ground beef or sausage, and feel free to add vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to boost flavor and nutrition while keeping it meat-free and delicious.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
It can be challenging because cream cheese and cheeses are key to the creamy texture. However, using dairy-free cream cheese alternatives and plant-based cheeses might work if you find good quality substitutes, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly.
How spicy is this casserole?
The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes, but they are optional and can be adjusted or omitted altogether to suit your family’s taste. The dish’s primary focus is creamy, cheesy comfort rather than heat.
What is the best way to reheat leftover casserole?
Reheating in the oven covered with foil helps retain moisture and keep the cheese creamy, while microwaving is faster for single portions. Removing the foil near the end of oven reheating creates a nicely browned cheese top again.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food magic that anyone can master in their own kitchen. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with classic Italian-inspired flavors that feel like a warm hug. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this casserole promises smiles and satisfied appetites—give it a try and soon it will be one of your favorite go-to dishes too!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, creamy pasta dish combining tender spaghetti, a rich cream cheese and tomato sauce, and a cheesy baked topping. Perfect for family dinners, it balances flavorful Italian seasonings and optional ground meat for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Sauce
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Protein
- 1/2 lb ground beef or sausage (optional for added protein)
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine softened cream cheese, heavy cream, tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir occasionally until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season Sauce: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning for your preference.
- Cook Optional Meat: If using ground beef or sausage, brown it in a separate skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat and add the meat to the sauce mixture, stirring to combine.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese sauce (and meat if added) until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Optional Broil: For a more browned and crispy top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest the Casserole: Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes to set before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired and serve hot to enjoy this creamy, cheesy comfort food.
Notes
- You can substitute heavy cream with milk for a lighter sauce, but the texture may be less rich.
- For vegetarian option, omit the ground beef or sausage.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better flavor.
- Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it to set and makes it easier to serve.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for a mild version.
