Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the entire family, look no further than Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This cheesy, creamy casserole combines the rich flavors of cream cheese with the classic goodness of spaghetti, all baked to perfection. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a cozy dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti. The creamy cream cheese sauce adds a rich, velvety texture to the dish, while the baked layers create a golden, slightly crispy topping. With a balance of cheesy goodness and the comforting flavors of Italian seasoning, this casserole will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

To make this delicious casserole, you will need:

• 1 pound spaghetti – The pasta base for this dish, cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
• 8 ounces cream cheese – The key ingredient that makes this casserole so creamy and rich.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes – Adds a hint of tangy tomato flavor to balance the creaminess.
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese – For that melty, gooey cheese topping.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds extra flavor and a touch of saltiness.
• 1/2 cup sour cream – To enhance the creaminess and flavor.
• 1 onion, finely chopped – For a savory base flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds depth and aroma to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs to bring an authentic Italian flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – To taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a bit of spice.
• Olive oil – To sauté the onions and garlic.

Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

To the skillet, add the cream cheese and sour cream, stirring until smooth and creamy. Once the cream cheese has melted, pour in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the cream cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Remove from heat.

5. Prepare the Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the creamy spaghetti mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking, creating a golden and bubbly topping.

7. Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown. For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance! Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Add Some Protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked ground beef, sausage, or rotisserie chicken to the casserole before baking.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use a Blend of Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, to change up the flavor.

Why Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is Perfect for Every Occasion

This casserole is not only a hit at family dinners but also works great for meal prepping. It can be easily stored in the fridge for leftovers or frozen for later use. Whether you need a quick dinner solution or a dish to impress guests, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a versatile, crowd-pleasing option.

Final Thoughts

With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and satisfying flavors, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s simple to make, customizable, and a guaranteed way to bring smiles to the table. Give this recipe a try today, and watch as it becomes a go-to dish for your family and friends!

Serving and Storage Tips for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Serving Tips

• Garnish for Extra Flavor: After baking, top your casserole with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano for a pop of color and flavor. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat if desired.
• Pair with a Salad: For a well-rounded meal, serve your casserole with a simple green salad. A light vinaigrette or Italian dressing complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Perfect for All Ages: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults. For younger children, you can even omit the garlic or reduce the seasoning to suit their taste.
• Serving Size: This recipe typically serves 6-8 people, but you can easily adjust the portions depending on your guests or family size. It’s great for dinner parties, potlucks, or as a quick family meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container or cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, make sure the casserole is completely cooled. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat your casserole in the oven rather than the microwave to preserve the crispy top. Cover it with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning while it heats.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole for days to come and ensure it remains just as delicious as when it was freshly baked.

1. Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the entire dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. If baking from cold, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I add protein to the casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole is versatile, and adding protein is a great way to make it more filling. You can mix in cooked ground beef, sausage, rotisserie chicken, or even cooked bacon. Just make sure to incorporate the protein into the sauce before mixing it with the pasta.

3. Can I freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole! After assembling the dish, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until fully heated.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

While spaghetti is the traditional choice for this casserole, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or ziti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.

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