“Did you hear about the latest comfort food craze sweeping dinner tables? Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti has become my new obsession! Picture this: layers of creamy film over perfectly cooked pasta, balanced with a savory meat sauce and gooey cheese that pulls apart with each forkful. This recipe not only delivers heartwarming flavors but is also incredibly family-friendly, making it the go-to dish for weeknight meals or potlucks. Plus, it’s customizable—swap in gluten-free pasta or your favorite veggies to tailor it to your loved ones’ tastes. Ready to indulge in a cozy culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the secrets of creating this unforgettable dish together!” Why is Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti a Must-Try? Comforting, creamy goodness: This dish wraps you in warmth, with layers of cream cheese melding perfectly with your favorite spaghetti. Versatile ingredients: Customize by using gluten-free pasta, swapping turkey for beef, or adding vibrant veggies like spinach or zucchini. Make-ahead simplicity: Prepare it in advance, refrigerate, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready—ideal for busy weeknights! Crowd-pleasing favorite: Serve this at gatherings, and watch it disappear fast; everyone loves a heartwarming slice of Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti. Delicious pairing: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress! Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti Ingredients For the Pasta • 12 oz spaghetti – The base of this dish, providing structure; substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit your needs. For the Meat Sauce • 1 lb lean ground beef – Adds protein and rich flavor; can be swapped for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. • 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce – Provides moisture and flavor; use homemade or marinara for more control over ingredients. For the Creamy Layer • 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened – Creates a luscious, velvety middle layer; full-fat offers the best richness, whereas low-fat can lighten it up. • 1 garlic clove, minced – Infuses aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if needed. • 1 tsp Italian seasoning – Gives a herby flavor boost; fresh herbs can elevate the taste even more. • A pinch of garlic salt – Enhances overall flavor; regular salt is a good alternative; adjust to taste. For the Topping • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness and a delightful crust; Pecorino Romano is a wonderful substitute if you want a stronger flavor. • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Offers that gooey melt; feel free to use a blend of Cheddar for a different spin. Now you’re ready to whip up this delicious and comforting Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti, tailored just for your family! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even cooking temperature for your Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and cooking equipment to streamline the cooking process. A 9×13-inch baking dish will be essential for assembling your delicious dish later. Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook 12 oz of spaghetti according to package instructions until it reaches al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Once done, drain the spaghetti well and return it to the pot. This step builds the foundation of your Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti, delivering that perfect pasta texture in every bite. Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 lb of lean ground beef until fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain excess fat, then stir in 1 jar (28 oz) of spaghetti sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, letting those flavors meld beautifully. Step 4: Mix with Cream Cheese In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot spaghetti with 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt. Stir thoroughly until the cream cheese melts and creates a creamy mixture. This layer adds rich, luscious flavor to your Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti and ensures every forkful is scrumptious. Step 5: Layer the Ingredients Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, add half of the creamy spaghetti mixture on top, spreading it evenly. This layering technique helps to achieve a delightful balance of flavors that will melt together during baking, enhancing the overall taste of your dish. Step 6: Add Remaining Ingredients Next, layer the remaining spaghetti on top of the first layer. Gently spread the rest of the meat sauce over the top, making sure to cover the spaghetti evenly. This will create a hearty and flavorful foundation for the bubbling cheese topping that comes next, making your Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti irresistibly inviting. Step 7: Top with Cheese Sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the surface of the dish. This cheesy topping will melt beautifully, creating a golden crust that is sure to impress. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to achieve that gooey, stretchy effect when serving. Step 8: Bake to Perfection Place the assembled Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—you’re looking for a bubbly, golden surface that invites you in. If it starts to over-brown, cover it with foil to prevent burning during the final minutes. Step 9: Allow to Rest Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut and serve without the creamy filling spilling out. Get ready to savor the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen as you prepare to enjoy your Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti! How to Store and Freeze Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick meal or in the oven until heated through. Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the unbaked dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed. Make-Ahead: You can assemble the cream cheese baked spaghetti and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is perfect for busy weeknights! Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy every comforting bite! Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti Variations Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your taste buds with these delightful twists! Meat Swap: Use ground turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter option that still packs protein. This modification keeps the comfort without the heaviness. Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone can enjoy this warm dish. It maintains the essence of comfort food, tailored for dietary needs. Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini either into the meat sauce or creamy layer for an extra dose of nutrition. This not only boosts health but adds lovely textures to each bite. Sauce Experiment: Try using Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist or combine Alfredo with marinara for a fusion of flavors that’s simply irresistible. This gives the dish an entirely unique experience! Vegetarian Delight: Omit the meat entirely and increase the veggies for a delightful vegetarian version. This dish can still offer that comforting warmth without sacrificing flavor. Cheesy Twists: Swap half of the mozzarella with a blend of Cheddar cheese to introduce a sharp flavor profile to your baked spaghetti. This twist takes the classic bake to another level! For more delicious ideas, check out these recipes: Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Pumpkin Cream Cheese. Enjoy experimenting as you make this dish truly yours! What to Serve with Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti Imagine sitting down with a warm plate in front of you, completing the comforting experience of this creamy dish. Garlic Bread: This classic addition brings a crunchy, buttery delight that pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta layers. Its aroma fills the room with warmth and invites family to gather at the table. Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens thrown together with colorful veggies create a refreshing contrast to the rich spaghetti, balancing the meal with a burst of freshness. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for an extra zing! Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots bring out earthy flavors while adding necessary fibers. These roasted delights offer a wholesome side full of nutrients. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks made with a hint of garlic are a win-win! Their warm, gooey texture complements the creaminess of the baked spaghetti, offering absolute indulgence. Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or a smooth Merlot can beautifully enhance the meal’s flavors, providing a sophisticated touch that elevates the dining experience. Tiramisu: Finish on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert. Its creamy layers and coffee-infused flavors contrast wonderfully with the hearty entrée and round off your dinner perfectly! Expert Tips for Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti • Cook Al Dente: Ensure spaghetti is cooked al dente for a perfect texture in the final bake, avoiding mushiness later on. • Soften Cream Cheese: Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing into the spaghetti; this helps achieve a creamy consistency. • Season Generously: Be generous with your meat sauce seasoning; it balances the richness of cheese and brings out the flavors in this Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti. • Watch the Cheese: If the cheese begins to over-brown while baking, cover the dish with foil to prevent burning and maintain that golden glaze. • Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap in gluten-free pasta or your favorite veggies to truly make this dish your own. This keeps it exciting and family-friendly! Make Ahead Options Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. For perfect results, ensure you tightly cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from frozen. This makes weeknight dinners effortless, so you can enjoy delicious homemade comfort food with minimal fuss! Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best spaghetti? Absolutely! For this Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti, look for spaghetti that is sturdy and can hold its shape well during baking. Opt for brands that indicate ‘durum wheat’ on the packaging. You can also select whole wheat or gluten-free options depending on dietary preferences. What is the best way to store leftovers? Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti can be reheated in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For the best results, cover the dish with foil when reheating to retain moisture. Can I freeze Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti? Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked assembly for up to 3 months. Just wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This make-ahead option is a lifesaver for busy days! What should I do if my pasta turns mushy? Don’t worry! If you accidentally overcook the spaghetti, make sure to mix it gently with the creamy layer to avoid breaking the pasta further. During baking, the creamy layer should help maintain some structure, but for best results, strive for al dente in the cooking phase. Can my dog eat Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti? While cheese in small amounts is generally okay for dogs, it’s important to remember that the sauce may contain ingredients like garlic and onions, which are toxic to pets. It’s best to avoid letting your dog have any portion of this dish to ensure their safety! Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti for Perfect Family Dinners Cream Cheese Baked Spaghetti is a family-friendly dish that combines creamy pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese for delightful dinners. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 6 slicesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 530 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta12 oz spaghetti Substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit your needs.For the Meat Sauce1 lb lean ground beef Can be swapped for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce Use homemade or marinara for more control over ingredients.For the Creamy Layer1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened Full-fat offers the best richness, whereas low-fat can lighten it up.1 clove garlic, minced Substitute with garlic powder if needed.1 tsp Italian seasoning Fresh herbs can elevate the taste even more.a pinch garlic salt Regular salt is a good alternative; adjust to taste.For the Topping½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano is a wonderful substitute for a stronger flavor.½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese Feel free to use a blend of Cheddar for a different spin. Equipment Large potskillet9x13-inch baking dishmixing bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather your ingredients and cooking equipment, including a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.Cook spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and return it to the pot.Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in the spaghetti sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.In a mixing bowl, combine the hot spaghetti with cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until the cream cheese melts and combines smoothly.Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the creamy spaghetti mixture and spread it evenly.Layer the remaining spaghetti on top followed by the rest of the meat sauce, ensuring even coverage.Sprinkle grated Parmesan and mozzarella cheese generously over the surface.Bake the dish uncovered for about 30 minutes, looking for a bubbly, golden surface. Cover with foil if it over-browns.Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 530kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesCook al dente spaghetti for the best texture and ensure cream cheese is softened for easy mixing. Season generously for balanced flavors. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
