BAKED CREAM CHEESE SPAGHETTI
Baked cream cheese spaghetti is a comforting, cheesy pasta casserole layered with creamy cream cheese, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s an easy, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Meat Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook ground beef until browned. Drain fat, then stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Make Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread half the meat sauce in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Layer spaghetti, then spread the cream cheese mixture evenly. Top with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot with garlic bread or salad.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble casserole ahead, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Meat-Free Option: Skip the ground beef and use marinara with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
- Extra Cheesy: Add ricotta or provolone layers for even more creaminess.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.