Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese, hearty pasta, and a rich sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish stands out with its indulgent flavors and easy preparation. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers, this casserole will surely please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and melted mozzarella creates a rich, velvety texture that coats every bite.
• Hearty Meal: With ground beef and spaghetti, this casserole is filling enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
• Easy to Prepare: Most of the cooking is done in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or swapping out proteins to suit your taste.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish stays delicious for days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the spaghetti evenly while allowing plenty of room for stirring.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and mixing in the sauce without making a mess.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking and makes serving easier when it’s time to dig in.

Ingredients

For the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, gather these ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 12 oz spaghetti

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 28 oz jar of spaghetti sauce

For the Cheese Mixture

• 1 8 oz package of softened cream cheese
• 1 clove of garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• A pinch of garlic salt

For Topping

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
– Add spaghetti to boiling water.
– Cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite (about 12 minutes).
– Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

While your pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly (5 to 7 minutes).
– Drain any excess fat before stirring in the spaghetti sauce.

Step 4: Mix Pasta with Cheese

In a mixing bowl, combine drained spaghetti with:
– Softened cream cheese,
– Minced garlic,
– Italian seasoning,
– Garlic salt.
Stir until cream cheese melts and pasta is well coated.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread a small amount of meat sauce in the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
– Layer spaghetti on top of the sauce.
– Pour remaining meat sauce over spaghetti.
– Finally, sprinkle with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake in your preheated oven until bubbly, about 30 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole!

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. It’s great for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Crunchy Delight: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a flavorful crunch that complements the creamy casserole.

Fresh Salad

• Crisp and Refreshing: A light garden salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole. Drizzle with a vinaigrette for extra flavor.

Steamed Vegetables

• Healthy Addition: Offer a side of steamed broccoli or green beans to provide a nutritious contrast to this hearty dish.

Extra Cheese Topping

• Cheesy Indulgence: For cheese lovers, sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra gooey finish.

Wine Pairing

• Perfect Match: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, pairs beautifully with the flavors of the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole.

Make It a Buffet

• Casual Dining: Set up a buffet-style serving where guests can help themselves to the casserole and choose from various sides and toppings.

How to Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

To ensure your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor. Opt for high-quality spaghetti sauce and fresh garlic for maximum taste.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook spaghetti just until al dente. It will finish cooking in the oven without becoming mushy.
• Mix Thoroughly: Ensure that cream cheese is fully melted and mixed in with the spaghetti for even distribution of flavor.
• Cover While Baking: If you want a softer topping, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first half of baking.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This will make it easier to cut and serve.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole pairs well with several side dishes that can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the creamy richness of the casserole.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with Caesar dressing offers a tangy contrast to the meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers provide color and flavor alongside your main dish.
4. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds texture and a refreshing taste that balances out the heaviness of the casserole.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for a delightful appetizer.
6. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice and vegetables, offering another layer of flavor to your table setting.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs nicely with pasta dishes; grill or boil it for easy preparation.
8. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and cured meats brings an Italian flair that complements the spaghetti casserole beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s quality.

• Overcooking the Spaghetti: Cooking spaghetti too long can lead to mushy pasta. Aim for al dente, about 12 minutes in boiling salted water.
• Forgetting to Drain the Beef: Leaving excess fat from the ground beef can make your casserole greasy. Always drain the fat before adding sauce.
• Ignoring Cream Cheese Temperature: Using cold cream cheese can result in lumps. Make sure it’s softened for a smooth mix into the spaghetti.
• Not Greasing the Baking Dish: Skipping this step can cause sticking. Lightly grease your baking pan to ensure easy serving.
• Underestimating Bake Time: Not baking long enough may leave your casserole watery. Bake until bubbly, typically around 30 minutes.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I make a vegetarian version of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian option.

What sides pair well with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

A fresh salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly, adding freshness and crunch.

How do I prevent my casserole from becoming too dry?

To keep it moist, ensure you have enough sauce and don’t overbake it. Adding a splash of broth before reheating helps too.

Final Thoughts

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not only creamy and comforting but also versatile enough for personal touches. Customize it with your favorite ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Try this recipe for your next family dinner!