If you love the comforting flavors of Italian-inspired casseroles, this Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe is about to become your new family favorite! A luscious layer of creamy cheese is nestled between perfectly cooked spaghetti and rich, meaty marinara, all baked under a bubbling blanket of mozzarella. Every bite is loaded with flavor and cozy goodness, making it a true showstopper for weeknights or special occasions alike. This dish is easy to put together, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds.

Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe are delightfully simple, but each one brings something special to the table—whether it’s creamy texture, savory depth, or vibrant color. Gather these pantry staples and a few fresh essentials for a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts!

Spaghetti (12 ounces): Classic pasta shape that soaks up every bit of sauce and cheese.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Prevents the cooked spaghetti from sticking and adds a subtle richness.
Ground beef or Italian sausage (1 pound): Delivers a savory, meaty base—use your favorite or swap for turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.
Small onion, finely chopped: Adds foundational savory-sweet flavor and aroma.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Provides a fragrant punch that wakes up the whole dish.
Marinara sauce (24 ounces): Store-bought or homemade, this sauce brings everyone’s favorite tomato flavor.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that gives classic Italian zest.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every ingredient and rounds out the flavors.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Lends a gentle bit of warmth and spice.
Cream cheese, softened (8 ounces): The creamy heart of this recipe, adding velvety texture throughout.
Sour cream (1/2 cup): Brings lightness and tang, perfectly balancing the richness.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Salty, nutty, and utterly delicious—Parmesan helps the casserole bake up beautifully.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Gives you that stretchy, bubbly, golden topping everyone craves.
Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons): A pop of green freshness to finish the dish with a splash of color.

How to Make Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your spaghetti until just al dente, following the package instructions. Once drained, toss the noodles with olive oil. This not only prevents sticking but also gives the pasta a lovely sheen, making it ready to soak up those delicious flavors to come.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet set over medium heat, brown your ground beef or Italian sausage with the finely chopped onion. Cook until the meat is entirely browned and crumbly, and the onion is soft and nicely translucent. Add in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute, just until aromatic, before stirring in your marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow everything to simmer for five minutes—this step develops a deep, savory base that makes this Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe shine.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan until smooth. This trio creates a tangy, ultra-creamy middle layer that takes this recipe from classic to unforgettable. Softening your cream cheese ahead of time makes this step a breeze.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Start by spreading half the cooked spaghetti evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, gently layer all the creamy cheese mixture over the noodles, spreading it edge to edge for even coverage. Top with the rest of the spaghetti, then pour your savory meat sauce generously over the entire casserole. The final flourish is a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese, promising a bubbly, golden finish once baked.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes to allow all the flavors to blend. Remove the foil, then bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and gleaming golden brown. Finish your Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe with a shower of chopped fresh parsley before serving—the bright green really pops against that cheesy top!

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

Don’t skip the last flourish—a scattering of freshly chopped parsley adds freshness and a splash of color that makes your casserole extra inviting. For even more flavor, try a finishing sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Side Dishes

This Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce, while the salad brings a cool, crunchy contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving to guests, spoon individual portions into shallow bowls and top each with a sprig of parsley for restaurant-style finesse. You can even bake the casserole in smaller ramekins for personalized servings—adorable and practical for parties or potlucks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to four days. Be sure to let the casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or cover your baking dish tightly before refrigerating.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the baked or unbaked casserole. Wrap the dish securely in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat baked leftovers, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20–25 minutes, or until piping hot and bubbly. For individual servings, a quick zap in the microwave (covered, to avoid drying out) works well—just check for even heating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Simply assemble the Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes since it will be cold from the fridge.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you’re out of cream cheese or want a different flavor profile, try Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. Just ensure your substitute is blended smoothly with the sour cream and Parmesan for the best creamy texture.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

While the original includes ground beef or sausage, you can make a vegetarian-friendly version by swapping in sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives—just as delicious and super satisfying.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free spaghetti, and double-check that your marinara sauce is certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-friendly!

How should I store leftovers to maintain the best texture?

Allow the casserole to cool fully before storing in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This keeps the noodles from getting soggy and the cheese wonderfully creamy for days after baking.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes say “comfort food” quite like this Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe. Bursting with beloved flavors and a delightfully creamy texture, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to share with people you love. Treat your family or friends to this cozy casserole, and don’t be surprised when it disappears fast—enjoy every bite!

Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this comforting and creamy Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese recipe that brings together rich flavors in a delightful pasta bake. Layers of spaghetti, a savory meat sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture create a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the spaghetti:

12 ounces spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the meat sauce:

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the cream cheese mixture:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Cook spaghetti according to package directions, drain, and drizzle with olive oil.
In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion until browned. Add garlic, then stir in marinara sauce, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
Mix cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan until smooth.
Layer spaghetti, cream cheese mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella in a baking dish.
Bake covered, then uncover until bubbly. Garnish with parsley.