Introduction
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a rich and creamy comfort food that combines the hearty flavors of pasta, savory meat sauce, and the indulgent texture of cream cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its creamy layers and baked golden top create a satisfying meal that feels gourmet but is simple to prepare.
The History Of
Spaghetti casseroles have long been a staple in home kitchens, evolving from traditional Italian pasta dishes to a fusion of baked and creamy variations. Combining pasta with cream cheese became popular in mid-20th-century America, where convenience foods and casseroles rose in popularity. Today, the baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is a modern adaptation that brings together the love of Italian flavors with the comforting appeal of a baked dish.
Ingredients Breakdown
▢12 oz spaghetti – the base of the casserole, cooked to al dente for the perfect texture
▢1 lb ground beef – adds protein and hearty flavor
▢1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – the rich and tangy tomato base for the casserole
▢8 oz cream cheese – gives the dish its creamy, luxurious texture
▢1/2 cup sour cream – enhances creaminess and adds a tangy flavor
▢1 cup shredded mozzarella – for that gooey, melty topping
▢1/4 cup grated Parmesan – adds sharp, nutty flavor to the topping
▢2 tbsp olive oil – used to cook the beef and add flavor
▢2 cloves garlic, minced – adds depth and aroma to the sauce
▢1 tsp Italian seasoning – brings a blend of classic herbs to elevate the flavors
▢Salt and pepper to taste – enhances all the ingredients
▢Fresh parsley, chopped – optional for garnish
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until evenly coated.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti mixture, meat sauce, and cheeses.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Use quality marinara sauce for a robust flavor. Homemade or store-bought works as long as it’s rich and flavorful.
- For extra creaminess, ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti before baking; it should be slightly underdone to prevent mushiness after baking.
- Covering the casserole for the first portion of baking prevents the cheese from over-browning.
Variations and Customizations
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a twist.
- Add veggies like diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or a mix of Italian cheese blends for different flavors.
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or using a spicy marinara sauce.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While this casserole is indulgent, it can be modified to suit different dietary needs. Use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for added fiber or dietary restrictions. Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative. To reduce fat content, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese. A single serving of this dish provides protein, calcium, and energy but should be enjoyed in moderation due to its calorie and fat content.
FAQ
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Adjust baking time slightly if baking straight from the fridge.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely. Portion out the casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- What can I serve with this dish? Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, penne, rigatoni, or any sturdy pasta will work well in this recipe.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce
- 1 8 oz package of softened cream cheese
- 1 clove of garlic minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- A pinch of garlic salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 12 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain fat and stir in spaghetti sauce.
- Drain spaghetti and place in a bowl. Add cream cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until cream cheese is melted and spaghetti is thoroughly coated. Spread a small amount of meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking pan; put spaghetti on top and top with remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly, about 30 minutes.