Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish like Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, combining the richness of cream cheese with the warm, hearty flavors of your favorite pasta. Imagine digging into a golden-brown casserole with a bubbly, savory top, each bite delivering an explosion of gooey cheese and tender spaghetti. You can whip this up effortlessly on a family gathering night or for a cozy winter evening.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was an experiment gone right! I intended to use up some leftover cream cheese, and what emerged was a dish that left my family eagerly wanting more. It quickly became a staple in our home. If you’re intrigued by our Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll also want to check out my creamy baked ziti. It features similar comforting flavors but with ziti pasta instead. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
What is Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole – the name itself sparks curiosity, doesn’t it? You might find yourself pondering, “Why do they call it that?” Well, imagine spaghetti meeting a cheesy embrace, and voilà! You’ve got a casserole that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a dish that embodies the saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck party where you need to impress without breaking a sweat. Why not start a new family tradition with this cheesy masterpiece that’s sure to become a favorite? Gather your loved ones and dig in; you won’t be disappointed!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
There are so many reasons to absolutely adore this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! First off, it stands out as a fantastic main dish, effortlessly bringing together the comfort of pasta and the creamy richness of cheese. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also serves as an economical option for families. Cooking at home allows you to save money while you whip up a feast that rivals restaurant-quality meals.
And let’s not forget about the toppings! Picture a crispy, golden layer of melted cheese, perhaps sprinkled with fresh herbs or a hint of crushed red pepper for a little kick. Compared to a classic baked macaroni and cheese, this casserole offers a delightful twist that will have everyone begging for seconds. Why not gather your ingredients and get cooking?
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Quick Overview
Creating this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is an absolute breeze. It combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender pasta to create a cozy and satisfying meal for any occasion. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a bake time of 30 minutes, you’ll have a scrumptious dish ready in no time.
Key Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- Spaghetti: 8 ounces, cooked and drained
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened
- Marinara Sauce: 2 cups (ensure it’s alcohol-free)
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Salt & Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Basil: for garnishing (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly.
- Cook the spaghetti: Boil water in a large pot. Add the spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Mix the creamy filling: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture, stirring until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Assemble the casserole: Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Pour half of the creamy spaghetti mixture into the dish, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top. Add the rest of the spaghetti mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and turns a golden brown color.
- Garnish and serve: Once ready, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.
Top Tips for Perfecting Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- Substitutions: Feel free to use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. Also, consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Timing: Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing; this makes the blending process easier and results in a creamier sauce.
- Avoiding common mistakes: To prevent the casserole from becoming too dry, make sure to use enough marinara sauce and not overbake it. Keep an eye on it towards the last few minutes in the oven.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be a delightful treat! To store Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, let it cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it; it can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to retain the moisture and prevent it from drying out. Warmer it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated thoroughly. Enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Perfect for any gathering or cozy family evening, it’s an easy way to bring everyone together around the dinner table while diving into a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is delicious.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil water in a large pot. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and stir until the pasta is well coated.
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil. Pour half of the creamy spaghetti mixture into the dish and sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top.
- Add the rest of the spaghetti mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.
