This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a cozy dish that steals the show! With creamy cheese and tender spaghetti, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Who doesn’t love a pasta dish that’s creamy and cheesy? It feels like a warm hug on a plate! I love making this when friends come over; it’s easy to share and always a hit!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Classic spaghetti works best, but you can swap it with other types like penne or rotini if you prefer. Just keep cooking time in mind, as different pastas may need adjustments.
Ground Beef: I often use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can even substitute with a plant-based meat if you’re going vegetarian!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess, but you could use ricotta or a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re looking for alternatives. I enjoy the tanginess that cream cheese brings.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is a favorite for its meltiness. For a stronger flavor, try using provolone or even gouda. You can mix and match based on what you have!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Creamy and Well-Mixed?
Getting that perfect mix of creamy and cheesy is important for this casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking the spaghetti, make sure to stir in the cream cheese while it’s still warm. This helps it melt better.
- Add a bit of the meat sauce to the spaghetti before combining all the ingredients. That creates a nice creamy base.
- Be gentle when mixing everything together to keep the pasta intact; you want to ensure even distribution without mushiness.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of baking time, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish to enjoy your creamy, cheesy dinner dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake!
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
Next, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside. Make sure not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
3. Sauté the Meat and Onion:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Don’t forget to toss in the minced garlic for the last minute of cooking to add that lovely flavor!
4. Combine with Sauce:
If there’s any excess fat in the skillet, drain it off. Stir the marinara sauce and dried Italian seasoning into the cooked beef and onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and then remove from heat.
5. Mix with Cream Cheese:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked spaghetti and softened cream cheese. Stir well until the cream cheese is evenly distributed and slightly melted from the heat of the pasta.
6. Fold in the Meat Sauce:
Now, gently fold the meat sauce into the spaghetti mixture until everything is combined. This is where all those beautiful flavors blend together!
7. Layer in Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top, making it nice and cheesy.
8. Add Remaining Spaghetti:
Now, add the rest of the spaghetti mixture on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to create a golden, bubbly top.
9. Bake the Casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starts to turn golden brown.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This helps it set a little. Serve warm, and if you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a nice touch!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole! It’s sure to be a family favorite!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta for This Casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different types of pasta may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you want to switch things up, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions until hot.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions for a few minutes before adding the ground meat.
