Name: Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil plus an additional 2-3 teaspoons if needed to coat the drained pasta for easier mixing; 1 pound ground beef; 1½ teaspoons italian seasoning blend divided, ½ teaspoon for ground beef and 1 teaspoon for cream cheese and pasta mixture; ½ teaspoon salt plus additional for salted pasta water; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 3 cups jarred marinara sauce 28-ounce jar MIDS brand Traditional flavor used; ½ pound spaghetti noodles; 8 ounces block style cream cheese, cubed, room temperature; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ cup finely shredded parmesan cheese; 8 ounce block whole-milk mozzarella cheese, shredded about 2 cups; Galbani brand Italian style used; Fresh parsley, finely chopped

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Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to every bite. The creamy texture of the pasta combined with rich marinara sauce and gooey cheese makes this meal a true winner for family dinners or casual get-togethers. There’s something uniquely comforting about a casserole that’s ready to please a crowd, and this recipe hits all the right notes. With layers of pasta, savory ground beef, and creamy cheese, it’s no wonder it’s an all-time favorite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese

I remember the first time I dug into a dish like this at a potluck. The creamy, cheesy goodness hooked me at the very first bite, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. This Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese does that — plus, it’s easy to whip up, even on those busy weeknights. If you’re looking for something that tickles your taste buds without asking for all your time in the kitchen, this recipe is just what you need. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Put this together in no time! With a prep and cook time of about 45 minutes, dinner can be served.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of creamy cheese, savory meat, and zesty marinara creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: This dish not only tastes great, but it also looks impressive when served, making it perfect for any occasion.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Diet-Friendly Options: Want to switch things up? You can easily substitute ground turkey or make it vegetarian with plant-based alternatives.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in browning the ground beef and adds flavor to the dish.
1 pound ground beef: The heartiness of beef gives the dish depth; for a lighter option, use ground turkey or meat substitutes.
1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning blend (divided): This balances the flavors; use oregano or basil as alternatives if needed.
½ teaspoon salt (plus more for pasta water): Enhances overall taste; use kosher salt for best results.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and a little kick; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
3 cups marinara sauce (28-ounce jar): A flavorful base; I recommend MIDS brand Traditional for its rich flavor.
½ pound spaghetti noodles: Traditional choice for this dish; whole wheat or gluten-free options work well too.
8 ounces block-style cream cheese (cubed, at room temperature): Adds a creamy texture and richness; avoid whipped cream cheese as it can affect consistency.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts flavor profile; fresh minced garlic can be substituted for a bolder taste.
½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor; you can use Pecorino Romano if desired.
8-ounce block whole-milk mozzarella cheese (shredded): This cheese melts beautifully for that gooey top; low-fat mozzarella is an alternative if you’d like to lighten it up.
Fresh parsley (finely chopped): For garnish; it brings a touch of freshness to the dish.

How to Make Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick oil spray and set it aside.
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet preheated over medium-high heat, add the olive oil, ground beef, ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the jarred marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked ground beef and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let this simmer for another 10 minutes while your pasta cooks. Once done, remove from the heat and set aside.
Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti noodles for 9-11 minutes or until al dente, following package directions.
Combine Pasta and Cream Cheese: Drain the pasta, and transfer it to a bowl. While it’s still warm, add the cream cheese, remaining 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix until the cream cheese is evenly incorporated. If the pasta is sticking, a drizzle of 2-3 teaspoons of olive oil helps.
Layer the Dish: Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, evenly spread the coated spaghetti noodles on top, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the spaghetti.
Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a hint of golden color.
Rest and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the baked spaghetti with cream cheese sit for about 5 minutes at room temperature. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a bit of flavor and color.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftover Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap tightly in foil or use a freezer-safe container; it will last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Just a note, the texture may change slightly from freezing, but adding a splash of marinara sauce while reheating can refresh the dish beautifully.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

When cooking the beef, make sure to break it up into small pieces for even cooking and better flavor distribution.
For a creamier texture, ensure cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing it into the warm pasta.
Avoid overcooking the spaghetti; you want it al dente as it will continue to cook while baking.
If you prefer a cheesier dish, feel free to add more mozzarella or a mix of your favorite cheeses on top.
Make a double batch of the meat sauce and use it in lasagna or as a topping for other pasta dishes for a tasty meal prep.
This dish can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Eating together is always a special occasion, especially when it involves delicious homemade meals. This Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese brings warmth and joy, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. With its creamy layers, savory flavors, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or spices to make it truly your own. I can’t wait for you to experience the comforting taste of this dish!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can swap spaghetti for any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and substituting it with lentils, mushrooms, or veggies. Use marinara sauce that doesn’t contain meat for a completely plant-based meal.

How do I make this ahead of time?

To make this dish ahead of time, simply assemble the entire casserole without baking it. Cover and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge, but add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

How can I enhance the flavor?

For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even a splash of red wine to the meat sauce. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also enrich the overall taste.