Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole*! It’s like a warm hug on a plate—rich, creamy, and oh-so-cheesy! Imagine pulling it out of the oven, the gooey mozzarella bubbling, and the aroma wafting through your kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish for a cozy family dinner. Everyone gathered around, and as soon as I set it on the table, I could see their eyes light up. It became an instant favorite! The blend of cream cheese and marinara creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be on your regular rotation for those busy weeknights or when you just need a little comfort food. It’s hearty, satisfying, and so easy to whip up!
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Let’s gather our ingredients for this delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 oz spaghetti (uncooked) – This is the base of our casserole, adding that perfect pasta texture.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing; this creates the creamy goodness!
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – I love using a mix of mozzarella for that gooey, melty topping. You can never have too much cheese!
- 1 cup marinara sauce – Choose your favorite brand or homemade for a rich flavor that complements the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This adds a nice salty kick and depth of flavor to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder – Just a sprinkle for that aromatic touch that makes everything better.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings a lovely Italian flair to the casserole.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season it to your liking; it really elevates the entire dish!
Having everything prepped and ready makes the cooking process so much smoother, so I recommend measuring things out before you start mixing!
How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Alright, let’s get cooking! This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is super simple to throw together, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can nail it every time. Just follow the instructions, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s all nice and hot when your casserole is ready to go in!
- While the oven’s heating up, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside for a moment. Don’t overcook it; we want it to hold up in the casserole!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix it well until it’s nice and smooth—this is where the magic happens!
- Now, add that cooked spaghetti and the marinara sauce into the cream cheese mixture. Stir it all together until everything is well coated and combined. Wow, it already smells amazing!
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. You want every bite to be just as delicious as the last!
- Now it’s time for the fun part! Top your casserole with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Go ahead, pile it on—you can never have too much cheese, right?
- Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that beautiful bubbly and golden cheese on top. Trust me, you’ll want to keep an eye on it!
- Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the flavors settle and make it easier to scoop out those cheesy portions.
And there you have it! A creamy, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole that’s sure to be a hit. Just remember, the key is in mixing everything well and not rushing through the baking time. Enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole has a special place in my heart, and I just know you’ll fall in love with it too! Here are some reasons why this dish is a must-try:
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and melted mozzarella creates a luscious, velvety mouthfeel that’s absolutely delightful.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike! Everyone loves a good cheesy pasta dish, and this one’s no exception.
- Hearty Meal: Packed with flavor and filling, it makes for a satisfying dinner that’ll keep everyone happy and full.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to add in your favorite ingredients like ground meat, veggies, or even different cheeses to mix things up.
- Leftover Goodness: It tastes even better the next day! You can easily enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to become a staple in your home. You’ll love how versatile and comforting it is!
Tips for Success with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Let’s make sure your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some tips that I swear by to elevate this dish:
- Soften that Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. This helps it blend smoothly into the mixture, giving you that creamy texture we all crave. I usually take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before I start cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti just until al dente. It’ll finish cooking in the oven, and you want it to hold its shape in the casserole. Trust me, mushy pasta is a no-go!
- Mix Well: When combining the spaghetti and cream cheese mixture, stir it well to ensure every noodle is coated. You want that cheesy goodness in every bite!
- Even Cheese Distribution: When topping with mozzarella and Parmesan, make sure to spread it out evenly across the top. This guarantees that every scoop has a delicious cheesy layer, and we all want that glorious golden crust!
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole during the last few minutes of baking. You want it bubbly and golden without burning the cheese!
- Let It Rest: After baking, let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to serve and enhancing those flavors!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re set to create a baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole that will impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole! It’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate, right? Below is the estimated nutritional information for one serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 15g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But knowing this gives you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy goodness guilt-free, knowing you’ve got a hearty meal packed with flavor and a decent protein punch!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole, and now you’ve got some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store and reheat it so it stays just as tasty as when it first came out of the oven!
First, let your casserole cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and prevents any drying out in the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days—perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t feel like cooking!
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, you have a couple of great options for reheating. If you want to keep that lovely cheesy texture, I recommend reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. Just keep an eye on it!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works great too! Just scoop out a portion into a microwave-safe dish, cover it (to avoid splatters!), and heat it in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between. It’s that easy!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole days later without losing any of that deliciousness. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ About Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Got questions about this delightful baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I get:
Can I add meat to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding cooked ground meat like beef, turkey, or sausage can amp up the flavor and make it even heartier. Just mix it in with the spaghetti and cream cheese mixture before baking. Yum!
How long does it last in the fridge?
It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Perfect for enjoying those cozy leftovers!
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can! Just swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions, and you’re good to go!
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the casserole and assemble it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The oven is my favorite method for reheating, as it keeps the cheese nice and gooey. But if you’re short on time, the microwave works just fine too—just be sure to cover it to avoid splatters!
Can I freeze baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole?
You can! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out! This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is all about enjoying good food and great company, so I’m here to help you make it perfect!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Now that you’ve whipped up this scrumptious baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! The right sides can really elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adds a wonderful crunch to your meal.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is a great contrast to the creamy casserole. I love a simple mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad.
- Steamed Vegetables: Brighten up your plate with some steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots. They add a pop of color and a nutritious touch to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus bring a delicious depth of flavor and are super easy to make. Just toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast away!
- Antipasto Platter: For a fun twist, serve an antipasto platter with olives, cheeses, and cured meats. It’s a delightful way to start the meal and complements the Italian flavors beautifully.
These sides not only complement the baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole but also create a well-rounded dining experience. Feel free to mix and match based on your family’s preferences—enjoy!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: 3 Cheesy Wonders
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and cheesy baked spaghetti casserole with a rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce to the cream cheese mixture; stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish; spread evenly.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked ground meat or vegetables.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole
