Description

Welcome to a culinary journey that marries comfort food with a delightful twist! Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a savory dish that combines the beloved flavors of classic spaghetti with the creamy richness of cream cheese. Originating from the heart of home-cooked meals, this casserole is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner. What makes this dish truly special is its ability to bring together simple ingredients into a harmonious blend that both kids and adults will love. As you savor each bite, the creamy texture envelopes the pasta, while the tangy notes of cream cheese elevate the entire experience. Best of all, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it accessible for novice cooks while still impressing seasoned chefs. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a comforting meal that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds!

Ingredients

• Spaghetti
• 12 ounces of spaghetti
• Salt for boiling water
• Cream Cheese Mixture
• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
• Sauce
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 pound of ground beef or turkey (or a plant-based alternative)
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
• Topping
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Method

To start with this comforting casserole, you’ll first want to cook the spaghetti. Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the spaghetti. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente, typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the spaghetti from sticking. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside to cool slightly.

Now, let’s prepare the creamy filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, blend the ingredients until they are smooth and creamy. Then, add in the chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if you desire a hint of heat. Mix until everything is well incorporated and set this mixture aside.

Next, it’s time to make the sauce. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn. Now, add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat apart, cooking it until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.

Once the meat is cooked, drain any excess grease if necessary. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reducing the heat to low. Allow the sauce to cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors together. The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall taste of the sauce.

Now, it’s time to combine all the elements. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce. Gently fold in the cream cheese mixture, ensuring that the spaghetti is well coated with the creamy goodness. This step is where the magic happens—each strand of pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce is simply irresistible!

Once everything is well mixed, transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the edges are neat and the top is smooth. For an extra cheesy finish, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a luscious, golden crust as it bakes.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place the casserole in the oven and bake it for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be enough to make anyone’s mouth water!

As the casserole bakes, take a moment to appreciate the anticipation building in the air. The combination of savory flavors and creamy textures will create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also comforting.

Tips and Conclusion

To elevate this dish for special occasions, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce. You can also swap the ground meat for a plant-based alternative, making it a delightful vegetarian option. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For a fun twist, serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread to create a well-rounded meal.



Preparing Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not just about cooking; it's about creating memories around the dining table with family and friends. The creamy, cheesy texture combined with the hearty flavors of the meat sauce makes this dish a favorite for gatherings and cozy nights at home. As you take that first bite, you’ll find yourself savoring the layers of flavor and the comforting familiarity of this beloved casserole. If you enjoyed this recipe, why not explore our other delightful dishes? From classic lasagna to creamy macaroni and cheese, there’s a world of flavors waiting for you. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let them join in on the fun! Happy cooking!