If comfort food had a superstar, it would surely be this Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender spaghetti tossed in a luscious, creamy blend of cream cheese and Parmesan, layered with a hearty, flavorful meat sauce bubbling under golden mozzarella. Every forkful is packed with cozy, satisfying flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to share with friends and family, making it a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe calls for familiar, straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each component plays its part — from the rich cream cheese that adds silkiness to the savory meat sauce that brings depth — resulting in a casserole bursting with flavor and character.
- 1 pound spaghetti: The foundation of the dish; cook to al dente for the perfect texture.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds creamy richness and a smooth coat for the noodles.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Enhances flavor and helps blend the cream cheese mixture evenly.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a nutty, salty kick that deepens the creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the cream cheese blend for a smooth, pourable consistency.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings mild warmth and aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of spice for complexity.
- 1 (24 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce: Convenient and flavorful base for the meat sauce.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty substance and savory richness.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Sweated down to add sweetness and texture.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds freshness and a slight crunch.
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained: Injects a subtle kick and juicy brightness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the sauce flavors together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to a gooey, bubbly topping that finishes the casserole perfectly.
How to Make Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by warming a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until nicely browned and no longer pink. Be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily, which helps maintain a perfect, balanced flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the browned beef. Sauté them together until they soften and release their natural sweetness, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds that rich flavor base that makes the meat sauce so irresistible.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained, along with the jar of spaghetti sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes. The longer you let it simmer, the deeper and more developed the flavors become.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until it is perfectly al dente. Drain it thoroughly to avoid sogginess in your casserole.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and melted butter. Stir until smooth and creamy, then add the grated Parmesan cheese and milk. Continue mixing until everything is well blended and silky. Finally, stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasoning to your liking for that perfect balance of flavors.
Step 6: Combine Spaghetti and Cream Cheese Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Toss gently to coat each strand evenly, creating a rich, creamy bed for the flavorful meat sauce.
Step 7: Layer the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and start layering your casserole. Pour half of the creamy spaghetti mixture evenly into the dish. Next, spread half of your meat sauce over this layer and sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers once more to create that perfect combination of creamy, meaty, and cheesy goodness.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Bake the assembled casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Once done, allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so the layers set nicely and every bite holds its shape.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil brightens the casserole visually and adds a pop of fresh flavor. For a little extra zing, a light dusting of grated Parmesan on top just before serving enhances the cheesy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully filling on its own but pairs great with crisp green salads, garlic bread for sopping up every last bit of sauce, or simply steamed vegetables to add a fresh contrast and balance on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a fresh basil leaf. Or, for gatherings, a big wedge from the casserole dish looks rustic and inviting. Adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish’s flavor and appearance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead meal or the next day’s delicious lunch.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble the dish but do not bake it if you plan to freeze. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven until heated through and bubbly. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps maintain the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional here, you can swap in penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you love. Just adjust the cooking time to get it al dente before layering.
Is it possible to make this Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply leave out the ground beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You could also use plant-based meat alternatives for the same hearty feel.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead, keep it refrigerated, and bake when ready. This makes it perfect for busy days or hosting guests.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I don’t have any?
Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can work in a pinch, though the texture and flavor will be a bit different. Cream cheese really provides that signature creaminess and tang.
How spicy is the casserole with the green chilies?
The diced tomatoes and green chilies add just a gentle hint of heat that enhances flavor without overpowering. If you prefer less spice, feel free to use plain diced tomatoes.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special treat but is so easy to make. Rich, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors, it’s perfect for family meals or feeding a crowd. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring layers of creamy, cheesy spaghetti and flavorful meat sauce. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole combines tender spaghetti coated in a rich cream cheese mixture with seasoned ground beef sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese Mixture
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (24 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
Topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease to keep the sauce from being too oily.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes and green chilies, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to combine the flavors.
- Simmer the Meat Sauce: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors. Longer simmering enhances taste.
- Cook Spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well to prevent sogginess in the casserole.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and melted butter, stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Add Parmesan and Milk: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and milk into the cream cheese mixture until fully blended.
- Season the Mixture: Mix in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Coat Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Toss gently to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Layer the Casserole – First Layer: Pour half of the coated spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly for a solid base.
- Layer the Meat Sauce: Spoon half of the simmered meat sauce over the spaghetti layer and spread it evenly to cover the pasta.
- Add Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat sauce layer for a melty, cheesy topping.
- Layer the Casserole – Second Layer: Repeat the layering by adding the remaining spaghetti mixture, followed by the remaining meat sauce, and finishing with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set before serving. This helps slices hold together better and enhances flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken to make the dish leaner.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier topping if desired.
- Ensure to drain spaghetti very well to avoid a watery casserole.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking.
