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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
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This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and creamy dinner dish combining al dente spaghetti noodles with a rich cream cheese sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, customizable, and family-friendly casserole perfect for weeknights or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente

Cream Cheese Sauce

  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Cheeses

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Optional Protein

  • 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until just al dente following package instructions. Drain well and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant. Add room temperature cream cheese and milk or heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  3. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the cream cheese sauce, tossing well to ensure all noodles are evenly coated and no dry spots remain.
  4. Add Cheese and Optional Meat: Stir in the cooked ground beef or sausage if using. Then fold in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, reserving a small amount for topping the casserole.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Notes

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth sauce without lumps.
  • Undercook spaghetti slightly to avoid mushy texture after baking.
  • Season gradually and taste at different stages to avoid over-salting.
  • Allow casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier slicing and serving.
  • Combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for balanced flavor and creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked spaghetti casserole, cream cheese casserole, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/baked-cream-cheese-spaghetti-casserole/