Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: A Creamy, Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Classic

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the kind of dish that instantly feels familiar and comforting, yet special enough to serve when you want something a little more indulgent. It takes everything people love about classic spaghetti and elevates it with a rich, creamy layer that melts beautifully into the pasta as it bakes. The result is a casserole that is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a family or a group.

What makes this recipe stand out is its balance. The cream cheese adds a luxurious texture without overpowering the tomato-based sauce, while baking everything together allows the flavors to meld into a cohesive, comforting dish. I tested this casserole using both full-fat and reduced-fat cream cheese, and while both worked, the full-fat version delivered the smoothest finish. This recipe is easy to prepare, forgiving, and ideal for make-ahead meals, making it a reliable option for busy schedules.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spaghetti serves as the foundation of this casserole. Cooked until just al dente, it holds up well during baking and absorbs the creamy sauce.

Cream cheese is the star ingredient that creates the signature rich and velvety texture. As it melts, it coats the pasta evenly and adds depth.

Ground beef provides heartiness and savory flavor. It forms the protein-rich base of the sauce.

Onion adds sweetness and aroma. When sautéed, it softens and blends seamlessly into the meat sauce.

Garlic enhances the overall flavor with warmth and subtle sharpness.

Marinara sauce brings acidity and balance, preventing the dish from feeling overly rich.

Italian seasoning adds classic herb notes that complement both the meat and the tomato sauce.

Salt helps bring all the flavors together and should be adjusted to taste.

Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.

Mozzarella cheese creates a stretchy, melty topping that browns beautifully in the oven.

Parmesan cheese adds sharpness and a savory finish to the casserole.

Butter helps soften the cream cheese and ensures a smooth, creamy layer.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic and cook briefly. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pour in the marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.

In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter, mixing until smooth. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until evenly coated.

Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish. Layer with half of the meat sauce, then repeat with the remaining spaghetti and sauce. Top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This casserole yields approximately 6 to 8 servings. Preparation time is about 25 minutes, with a baking time of 30 to 35 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a spoonful of marinara helps restore moisture.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is easy to adapt to suit different tastes. Ground turkey or Italian sausage can replace ground beef for a different flavor profile. For a meatless version, sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach work very well.

If you enjoy extra richness, a small amount of sour cream can be mixed with the cream cheese. For added heat, crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne can be stirred into the meat sauce.

Cheese lovers can experiment with blends such as provolone or fontina for a more complex topping. Whole wheat spaghetti can also be used for a slightly heartier texture and added fiber.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is high in carbohydrates and protein, making it filling and satisfying. It is rich due to cream cheese and mozzarella, so moderate portions are recommended. Using lean meat and reduced-fat dairy can lighten the overall profile.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Cream Cheese Consistency
Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing.

Pasta Texture
Avoid overcooking the spaghetti, as it will continue to soften while baking.

Flavor Balance
Taste the meat sauce before assembling and adjust seasoning if needed.

Make-Ahead Option
Assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, it can be assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, freeze tightly covered for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight before baking.

What pasta works best besides spaghetti?

Penne or rotini are good alternatives.

Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead?

It will change the flavor profile but can work for a creamier version.

How do I keep it from drying out?

Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms work well.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild, creamy flavors are usually a hit with children.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though the texture may be slightly less rich.

What size baking dish is ideal?

A standard 9×13-inch dish works best.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger dish or two separate pans.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, creamy twist on a classic favorite. With simple ingredients and reliable results, it is an excellent choice for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. This dish delivers warmth, richness, and familiar flavors that keep everyone coming back for seconds.

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