If there’s one dish that wraps you up in a warm, cheesy hug after a long day—it’s this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti tangled with a rich, tangy cream cheese blend, hearty beef marinara, and melty mozzarella baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table fast, and best of all, it’s easy enough to throw together on a busy weeknight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Total Comfort Food: It’s rich, cheesy, and satisfying—the kind of dish that hits the spot every single time.
Perfect for Busy Nights: You can prep everything in advance and just pop it in the oven when ready. It’s make-ahead friendly and reheats like a dream.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters can’t resist this gooey, meaty pasta bake. It’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Customizable: Add veggies, swap proteins, or play around with spices—it’s a forgiving recipe that welcomes experimentation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to build this mouthwatering baked spaghetti masterpiece:

Spaghetti: The foundation of the dish. Cook it al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy while baking.
Cream Cheese: Adds tanginess and creaminess. Soften it beforehand for easier mixing.
Sour Cream: Gives the creamy layer a smooth texture and extra richness.
Ground Beef: Brings hearty, savory flavor. You can sub with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles if preferred.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred version or homemade. Look for one with garlic and herbs for added depth.
Garlic Powder: A pantry staple that boosts flavor without effort.
Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to round out the savory sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and creates that irresistible cheesy top layer.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer to taste.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for getting creative. Here are a few tasty ways to switch it up:

Add Veggies: Try sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini in the meat sauce for a little extra nutrition.
Make It Spicy: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a kick.
Change the Protein: Ground turkey, sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken all work wonderfully here.
Go Meatless: Skip the beef and load up on sautéed veggies or use a lentil-based marinara for a vegetarian version.
Cheese Options: Mix in ricotta or cottage cheese for a lasagna-like feel, or sprinkle some parmesan for added depth.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Spaghetti

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s just al dente. Drain well and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer

In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and sour cream until completely smooth. This becomes your ultra-creamy middle layer that makes this dish so special.

Step 3: Cook the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any extra fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to bring the flavors together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

In a large baking dish, start with half of the spaghetti. Spread the cream cheese mixture on top, then spoon over half of the beef marinara sauce. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat all layers once more.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps everything set up perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Soften the Cream Cheese: This makes it so much easier to mix and spread. Just leave it out for 20–30 minutes beforehand.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente is the way to go—it will finish cooking as it bakes.
Use a Deep Baking Dish: This recipe is generous, and you don’t want it bubbling over in the oven.
Rest Before Serving: Let it sit for 5–10 minutes out of the oven so the layers stay neat when slicing.

How to Serve

This baked spaghetti is rich and filling on its own, but here are some great ways to round out the meal:

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness.
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks make the perfect companion for soaking up any extra sauce.

Toppings

Fresh basil or chopped parsley for a fresh, bright finish.
A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or grated parmesan cheese for extra zing.

For a Crowd

Serve it buffet-style with a big salad and some warm rolls—ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It tastes just as amazing the next day!

Freezing

You can freeze the fully assembled, unbaked dish or leftovers. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.

Reheating

Warm up individual portions in the microwave, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout. Add a splash of water or marinara to keep it moist if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni all hold up well and catch the sauce beautifully. Just avoid delicate pastas like angel hair—they’ll overcook easily.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble everything the night before, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temp for about 20 minutes before popping it in the oven.

What if I don’t have sour cream?
No worries—plain Greek yogurt works just as well. It gives a similar tang and creamy texture.

Is it okay to use low-fat cheese and cream cheese?
Yes, though full-fat versions offer the richest flavor and best texture. But if you’re watching calories, lower-fat options will still yield tasty results.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is pure weeknight magic—easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every cheesy, saucy bite. Whether you’re feeding your family or just craving some serious comfort food, this dish will absolutely hit the spot. Give it a try and don’t be surprised when it becomes part of your regular dinner rotation!