When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, cheesy, and indulgent charm of a baked spaghetti casserole. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti smothered in a creamy, velvety cream cheese mixture, topped with golden, bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan. Every bite is a warm hug on a plate—a dish that satisfies both your hunger and your soul.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food because it combines the best of Italian flavors with a creamy twist that takes traditional spaghetti to a whole new level. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or even for impressing guests at a potluck. With just the right balance of creaminess, tomato tang, and cheesy goodness, this casserole is bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Why This Casserole Stands Out
Spaghetti casseroles are a classic comfort food staple, but adding cream cheese transforms the dish from simple to extraordinary. The cream cheese gives the noodles a luscious, velvety coating that binds the flavors together, while also adding a subtle richness that makes each bite irresistible. Unlike traditional baked spaghetti, which can sometimes be dry or heavy, the cream cheese ensures your casserole is smooth, creamy, and indulgent without feeling overly dense.
This dish is versatile, too. You can add cooked sausage, ground beef, chicken, or even a variety of roasted vegetables to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Herbs and seasonings like basil, oregano, and garlic powder elevate the flavor, creating a hearty, satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this comforting masterpiece, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional additions: cooked ground beef, sausage, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers
Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, use a blend of fresh and shredded cheeses. Fresh mozzarella or a little sharp cheddar can add depth to your casserole.
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the creamy cheese mixture by combining cream cheese, ricotta, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Combine spaghetti and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti and half of the marinara sauce to the cheese mixture, stirring gently until the noodles are evenly coated.
- Layer the casserole: Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Pour the remaining marinara sauce on top, ensuring every strand is coated.
- Add the cheese topping: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the casserole. For extra crunch, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle on top.
Baking and Serving Tips
Bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling. Allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving—this helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle with a little olive oil or sprinkle fresh basil leaves just before serving.
Make-Ahead Tip: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly with foil, and bake it the next day. It also freezes well—just thaw and bake when ready to enjoy.
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting—a dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something special. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or any time you crave a little culinary hug.