Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: Easy & Delicious

Craving Comfort? Try This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole!

Imagine sinking your fork into a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying pasta bake. This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make, and it’s guaranteed to impress everyone at your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s comfort food at its finest!

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s incredibly creamy and cheesy, thanks to the cream cheese and mozzarella.
• The spaghetti is perfectly tender and coated in a flavorful sauce.
• It’s a great make-ahead dish, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
• It’s easily customizable with different meats, vegetables, or spices.
• Kids and adults both love this crowd-pleasing comfort food.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What sets this spaghetti casserole apart is the addition of cream cheese. It doesn’t just add creaminess; it creates a rich, tangy flavor profile that complements the tomato sauce perfectly. It’s not your average pasta bake; it has a velvety texture and a depth of flavor you’ll keep coming back for.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 (15 ounce) jar tomato sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel)
• 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage, cooked and drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Cream cheese is the star here, providing a creamy, tangy base that perfectly complements the tomato sauce. Diced tomatoes and green chilies add a subtle kick and depth of flavor to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and milk, and mix until smooth.
4. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and green chilies, cooked meat, oregano, and garlic powder to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture, and toss to coat all the noodles evenly.
6. Pour half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the spaghetti mixture.
8. Pour the remaining spaghetti mixture into the dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
10. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! For extra flavor, consider adding some sliced black olives, bell peppers, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the casserole before baking. To add more texture and richness, a layer of crispy breadcrumbs over the cheese is a game changer.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and a smooth sauce.
• Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it will continue to cook in the oven. Al dente is perfect.
• Be sure to grease your baking dish well to prevent the casserole from sticking.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone or Monterey Jack would also be delicious.
• If you want a crispier top, broil the casserole for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?
  

  Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a substitute for ground beef. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  

  Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.

• Can I use a different kind of pasta?
  

  Yes, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as penne, rigatoni, or rotini. Adjust the cooking time as needed for the different types of pasta.

• Can I freeze the baked spaghetti casserole?
  

  Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

• Can I make this without the diced tomatoes and green chilies?
  

  Yes, if you don’t want the spice, you can omit the diced tomatoes and green chilies or substitute them with regular diced tomatoes. You may want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to maintain some of the depth of flavor.

Variations and Customization Options

This recipe is incredibly versatile! For a vegetarian option, use lentils or chopped vegetables instead of meat. To make it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms or bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole hot, straight from the oven. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully, making it a meal to remember.

Conclusion

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, and the best part is how simple it is to put together. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite go-to recipe. Don’t forget to share your photos and tag me! Happy cooking!

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Swiss Chard and Eggs Benedict
• Stuffed Mushrooms

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