Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful comfort food perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings. This dish combines the classic flavors of spaghetti with a creamy twist, thanks to the addition of cream cheese. With its delicious blend of cheeses and hearty ground beef, it promises to be a hit at your dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is ideal for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful. The cream cheese adds a rich creaminess that elevates the traditional spaghetti and sauce. Second, it’s a time-saver! You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it into the oven when you’re ready to eat. Lastly, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup after a hearty family dinner. You’ll satisfy every taste bud with this comfort food favorite!
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Creating this casserole is straightforward and will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (28 oz) jar of spaghetti sauce
- 1 (8 oz) package of softened cream cheese
- 1 clove of garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- A pinch of garlic salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite (approximately 12 minutes).
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and crumbly (about 5 to 7 minutes). Drain any excess fat, then stir in the spaghetti sauce and set aside.
- Drain the spaghetti and place it in a large bowl. Add the cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the spaghetti is evenly coated.
- Spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Layer the spaghetti over it, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
- Finally, sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly, about 30 minutes.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
For a satisfying presentation, serve the casserole hot from the oven. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple green salad and some garlic bread on the side for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- For added flavor, consider sautéing chopped onions or bell peppers with the ground beef.
- If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked or leftover spaghetti to cut down on cooking time.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost the nutrition factor.
Variations
- Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Use different cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack to personalize the casserole.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with additional vegetables and use a meatless spaghetti sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Q: How do I know when the casserole is done?
A: The casserole is done when it’s bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
Q: Can I freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer.
Enjoy this comforting and creamy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole at your next dinner gathering—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef Can be substituted with ground turkey or sausage.
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce
- 1 8 oz package of softened cream cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
- 1 clove of garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- A pinch of garlic salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, and cook until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in the spaghetti sauce.
- Drain the spaghetti and place it in a large bowl. Add the cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the spaghetti is evenly coated.
Assembly
- Spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Layer the spaghetti over it, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top of the casserole.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly, about 30 minutes.
