Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Short Description

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that combines tender spaghetti with a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and marinara sauce. Layered with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and optionally enriched with ground beef or sausage, this casserole is baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or potluck gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella creates a luscious, velvety texture that envelops each strand of spaghetti.

• Hearty and Satisfying: The optional addition of ground beef or sausage adds a savory depth, transforming the dish into a filling main course.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole can be assembled in advance and baked when needed, making it perfect for busy schedules.

• Family Favorite: Its familiar flavors and comforting texture make it a hit with both adults and children alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 oz spaghetti

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

• 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.

4. Combine Spaghetti and Creamy Mixture: Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

5. Assemble Casserole:

   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

   • Layer half of the spaghetti mixture over the sauce.

   • If using, sprinkle half of the cooked ground beef or sausage over the spaghetti.

   • Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the meat layer.

   • Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the sauce.

   • Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with the cheeses on top.

6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef or sausage and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the marinara sauce for a spicier version.

• Different Pasta: Substitute spaghetti with other pasta types like penne or rigatoni for a different texture.

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or fontina to alter the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: The casserole can be assembled and frozen before baking. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream?

Yes, low-fat versions can be used; however, they may slightly alter the creaminess and flavor of the dish.

Is it necessary to cook the ground beef or sausage before adding it to the casserole?

Yes, the meat should be fully cooked before layering it into the casserole to ensure food safety.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup—spaghetti tossed in a rich cream cheese and sour cream sauce, layered with marinara and gooey cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this creamy, cheesy baked pasta will be your new go-to favorite!

---

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

• 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.

• Add hot, drained spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss to coat evenly.

• Spread half the marinara sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.

• Layer the cream cheese spaghetti mixture on top.

• If using, sprinkle the cooked ground beef or sausage over the spaghetti layer.

• Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.

• Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is golden.

• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

---

Notes

• Use a spicy Italian sausage for added kick.

• Let casserole sit for 5–10 minutes after baking to set before serving.

• Swap spaghetti for other pasta types like penne or rotini for variety.