Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, cheesy, and full of satisfying flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or prepping a make-ahead freezer meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. With perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in melted cream cheese, layered with a savory meat sauce, and topped with a gooey cheese crust, it’s a baked pasta dream come true.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Creamy: Cream cheese adds irresistible creaminess and depth of flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this hearty pasta bake.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and one dish to bake it all in.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make ahead and freeze for future dinners or leftovers.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (28 oz) jar of spaghetti sauce
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- A pinch of garlic salt
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- Cook pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 12 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Brown meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled (5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat and stir in the spaghetti sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix spaghetti and cream cheese: To the drained spaghetti, add softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and coats the noodles completely.
- Assemble casserole: Spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer the cream cheese-coated spaghetti over the sauce. Pour the remaining meat sauce on top. Sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for a classic pairing.
- Green Salad: A crisp Caesar salad or simple mixed greens add a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus for a nutritious side dish.
Tips for Success
- Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature before mixing for easier blending with the pasta.
- Use quality sauce: Choose a spaghetti sauce with herbs and rich tomato flavor for the best results.
- Double the recipe: Make one casserole to bake and one to freeze for later.
- Want a crispier top? Broil for the last 2-3 minutes to get a golden cheesy crust.
Make-Ahead & Freezer Instructions
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.
- To freeze: Prepare the casserole but don’t bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Microwave individual servings or warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the meat sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach instead.
- Different Pasta: Try rotini, penne, or linguine instead of spaghetti for a fun twist.
- Add More Cheese: Layer in ricotta or use an Italian cheese blend for extra richness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Estimated)
- Calories: 410
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 21g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great lighter option that still pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta and sauce.
What kind of spaghetti sauce works best?
Use your favorite brand, but sauces with herbs, garlic, and Italian seasoning are ideal for flavor depth. You can also use homemade sauce.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. You can freeze it either baked or unbaked. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your spaghetti sauce and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a cozy, satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. It’s creamy, meaty, cheesy, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, hungry teens, or guests at a potluck, this recipe delivers every time. Save it, share it, and add it to your family meal rotation—it might just become a new favorite!