Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

This recipe is a comforting twist on traditional spaghetti, offering a creamy, baked casserole-style dish that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. It’s layered with flavor, from the zesty marinara and seasoned beef to the creamy cheese mixture and golden mozzarella topping. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this dish delivers in both taste and convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound of spaghetti

• 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup of sour cream

• 1 pound of ground beef

• 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce

• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning

• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3. In a bowl, blend the cream cheese with sour cream until smooth.

4. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; drain the excess fat.

5. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning into the beef and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

6. In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, then spread the cream cheese mixture on top, followed by a layer of the beef sauce, and sprinkle with half the mozzarella cheese.

7. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, cream cheese, sauce, and mozzarella.

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 6 to 8 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a meatless crumbles substitute.

• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a kick.

• Different Cheese: Use cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend for a unique flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free spaghetti to make the dish gluten-friendly.

• Low-Fat Option: Use light cream cheese and sour cream, and lean ground beef or turkey.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through (about 15–20 minutes). For best results, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

FAQs

What type of spaghetti works best for this recipe?

Regular spaghetti works great, but you can also use thin spaghetti or even angel hair if you prefer a lighter texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or rotini would all work well and hold the sauce nicely.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the dish a day ahead, refrigerate it covered, and bake it when ready.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can lighten it by using low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and lean ground turkey or chicken.

Can I freeze baked cream cheese spaghetti?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

How do I know when it’s fully cooked?

The dish is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Definitely! Homemade sauce will add a fresh, personalized flavor to the dish.

What sides go well with this recipe?

Garlic bread, side salad, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this baked spaghetti.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish or two separate dishes.

Will the cream cheese mixture melt smoothly in the oven?

Yes, it becomes creamy and blends beautifully into the pasta layers during baking.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti brings together the best of two comfort food worlds: creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty, satisfying pasta. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly versatile, and sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy dinner idea, this dish is always a winning choice.