Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it softens. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant.

If you’re using ground beef, add it to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Cook the beef for 6-8 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce

Add the can of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or a whisk until it’s smooth and creamy.

Once the tomato sauce has simmered, stir in the cream cheese until it’s fully incorporated. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy tomato sauce and beef mixture. Stir until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese over the top. Be generous with the cheese for that delicious, melty crust.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden. If you like your cheese extra crispy, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or extra parmesan if desired. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for the ultimate comfort meal.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

The great thing about Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is that it’s a dish that appeals to everyone. Whether you’re serving picky kids, pasta lovers, or guests at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Here’s why:

1. The Creamy Sauce: The cream cheese blends seamlessly into the tomato sauce, giving it a smooth, rich texture that’s comforting but not overly heavy. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and tangy, and it makes the pasta extra luscious.
2. Melted Mozzarella: Who can resist gooey, melted mozzarella on top of their pasta? The cheese crust that forms while baking is both decadent and satisfying, providing that perfect cheesy bite with each forkful.
3. Hearty and Filling: The combination of pasta, ground beef, and creamy sauce makes this a filling meal that’s guaranteed to leave everyone satisfied. It’s hearty enough to be a main dish, and it’s perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
4. Easy to Make: Despite being rich and indulgent, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare. Most of the work is in the assembly, and it’s a one-pot wonder for cooking the sauce, so there’s less cleanup afterward. Plus, it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Tips for Making the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

1. Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
2. Add Veggies: If you want to make it even more nutritious, consider adding some vegetables to the mix. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers all pair well with the creamy tomato sauce and can be sautéed with the onions and garlic for added flavor.
3. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner option, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These proteins will still blend beautifully with the creamy sauce while cutting down on the fat content.
4. Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
5. Make It Vegetarian: For a meat-free version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with extra vegetables or even a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu or tempeh.

Final Thoughts

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that turns the classic spaghetti dinner into something truly special. The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender pasta, and melty mozzarella create a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends for a dinner party, or simply looking for a dish that’s both comforting and indulgent, this baked spaghetti is sure to impress.

So next time you’re in the mood for something cozy and satisfying, try this baked spaghetti with cream cheese. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests talking—and asking for the recipe!