Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe

 

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe: A Creamy, Comforting Classic

If you’ve ever dreamed of spaghetti that’s rich, creamy, and baked to golden perfection, the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort dish. Unlike traditional spaghetti recipes, this one combines the tangy smoothness of cream cheese with the robust flavor of pasta, creating a dish that’s both hearty and indulgent. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this creamy baked spaghetti, gather the following ingredients:

• Spaghetti noodles – 12 ounces (about ¾ of a standard box)
• Cream cheese – 8 ounces, softened
• Mozzarella cheese – 1 cup, shredded
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Ground beef or Italian sausage – 1 pound
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Marinara sauce – 2 cups (or your favorite pasta sauce)
• Milk – ½ cup
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
• Optional garnish – fresh parsley or basil

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Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook until al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Toss with a teaspoon of olive oil if you want to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, and milk. Mix until smooth. This will create a luscious, creamy sauce that will coat every strand of spaghetti.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Combine Meat and Sauce

Once the meat is cooked, add the marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Then, fold in the cream cheese mixture, allowing it to melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Mix Spaghetti and Sauce

Place the drained spaghetti noodles in a large mixing bowl. Pour the creamy meat sauce over the spaghetti and toss until the noodles are fully coated.

Step 6: Bake the Spaghetti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the coated spaghetti to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, golden crust.

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, and watch as everyone dives into the creamy, cheesy goodness.

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Tips for Success

• Cream Cheese Tip: Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables.
• Cheese Variations: Mix in provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a warm, comforting hug in a casserole dish. The creamy sauce blends perfectly with the robust flavors of the meat and marinara, while the baked cheese on top adds a satisfying texture. Perfect for leftovers, it tastes even better the next day!