Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole combines the best elements of creamy pasta and a hearty baked casserole. The creamy cream cheese sauce blends perfectly with cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce, creating a rich, comforting dish. Topped with melted cheese and baked until golden, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that makes a perfect family dinner or meal prep option!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb spaghetti

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)

  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 lb ground beef or sausage (optional for added protein)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Cook the Spaghetti:

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

    • Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce:

    • In a medium saucepan, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).

    • Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.

    • If using ground beef or sausage, brown it in a separate skillet and add it to the sauce mixture.

  3. Assemble the Casserole:

    • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese sauce until well coated.

    • Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

    • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

  4. Bake:

    • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

    • If you want a more browned top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.

  5. Serve:

    • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.

    • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

    • Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Notes

  • You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra flavor and nutrition.

  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef or sausage.

  • This dish is great for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

  • You can use a gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 890
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg