Creamy Dream: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Craving comfort food that’s both easy to make and unbelievably delicious? Look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. The combination of spaghetti, a rich cream cheese sauce, flavorful meat (optional), and plenty of cheese creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.

## Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

* **Ultimate Comfort Food:** This casserole is warm, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out.
* **Easy to Make:** With minimal prep time and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different meats, vegetables, or cheeses.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** This casserole is always a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and parties.
* **Make-Ahead Friendly:** Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Spaghetti:** 1 pound, cooked according to package directions.
* **Ground Meat (Optional):** 1 pound ground beef, Italian sausage, or ground turkey. If using, brown and drain excess grease.
* **Onion:** 1 medium, chopped.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced.
* **Cream Cheese:** 8 ounces, softened.
* **Sour Cream:** 1 cup.
* **Marinara Sauce:** 24 ounces (or your favorite pasta sauce).
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 2 cups, shredded.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/2 cup, grated.
* **Italian Seasoning:** 1 teaspoon.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Optional Add-ins:** Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, spinach, cooked bacon, pepperoni.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large pot for cooking spaghetti
* Large skillet or Dutch oven for browning meat (if using)
* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Mixing bowls
* Spoon or spatula

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:

**Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti**

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
3. Drain the spaghetti well and set aside.

**Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce (Optional)**

1. If using ground meat, heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned.
3. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

**Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture**

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream.
2. Beat with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.

**Step 4: Combine the Ingredients**

1. Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly.
2. If using, add the meat sauce (or simply marinara sauce if not using meat) to the spaghetti and cream cheese mixture.
3. Gently stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Add any optional add-ins you desire, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives. Mix well.

**Step 5: Assemble the Casserole**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
4. Sprinkle the top of the casserole with the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

**Step 6: Bake the Casserole**

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
2. Bake for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.

**Step 7: Let it Rest and Serve**

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
2. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to slice.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!

## Tips and Variations

* **Use Different Types of Pasta:** Feel free to substitute other types of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini, for the spaghetti.
* **Add More Vegetables:** Get creative with the vegetables you add to the casserole. Broccoli florets, zucchini, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a little heat.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or cheddar.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the meat and add extra vegetables for a vegetarian version.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
* **Make Individual Casseroles:** Divide the spaghetti mixture into individual oven-safe dishes for portion control.
* **Layer the Casserole:** Instead of mixing everything together, you can layer the ingredients in the baking dish. Start with a layer of spaghetti, followed by a layer of cream cheese mixture, then a layer of meat sauce, and finally a layer of cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
* **Top with Breadcrumbs:** For a crispy topping, sprinkle the casserole with breadcrumbs before baking. You can use plain breadcrumbs or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs.
* **Use Pre-Made Sauce:** To save time, use a jar of your favorite pre-made marinara sauce. Look for sauces with simple ingredients and no added sugar.
* **Make it in a Slow Cooker:** You can also make this casserole in a slow cooker. Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply assemble the casserole according to the instructions, but don’t bake it. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake according to the instructions, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if necessary.

## Serving Suggestions

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

* **Garlic Bread:** Serve with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus make a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Caesar Salad:** A classic Caesar salad is always a good choice.
* **Coleslaw:** A creamy coleslaw adds a cool and crunchy element to the meal.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave.
* **Freezer:** You can freeze this casserole for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size.)

* Calories: 400-600 per serving
* Protein: 20-30 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 40-60 grams

## Variations on the Theme: Exploring Related Recipes

While this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a standout dish, there are many variations on the theme that are worth exploring. Consider these related recipes to expand your culinary repertoire:

* **Lasagna with Cream Cheese:** Replace the ricotta cheese in your lasagna recipe with cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
* **Baked Ziti with Cream Cheese:** Use ziti pasta instead of spaghetti and create a similar casserole with a cream cheese base.
* **Chicken Alfredo Casserole:** Add cooked chicken and Alfredo sauce to the spaghetti mixture for a decadent chicken Alfredo casserole.
* **Tuna Noodle Casserole with Cream Cheese:** Give your classic tuna noodle casserole a boost of flavor and creaminess by adding cream cheese.
* **Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese:** Elevate your mac and cheese by incorporating cream cheese into the cheese sauce for an extra smooth and rich texture.

## Tips for Making the Best Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Achieving casserole perfection is easier than you think! Here are some expert tips to ensure your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole turns out amazing every time:

* **Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti:** Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the casserole and prevents it from becoming mushy.
* **Soften the Cream Cheese Properly:** Ensure the cream cheese is completely softened before mixing it with the sour cream. This will prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
* **Don’t Overbake:** Overbaking the casserole can dry it out. Bake just until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will impact the flavor of the casserole. Choose fresh, high-quality cheese, sauce, and meat (if using).
* **Season Generously:** Don’t be afraid to season the sauce and spaghetti mixture generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
* **Let it Rest:** Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to set and makes it easier to slice.
* **Grease the Baking Dish:** This prevents the casserole from sticking to the bottom of the dish and makes cleanup easier.

## Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, cheesy topping, and satisfying flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and comforting meal!

Enjoy your creamy, cheesy masterpiece!