Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

 Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

If you're searching for the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory, look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This rich and hearty dish brings together tender spaghetti, flavorful ground beef, zesty marinara sauce, and a decadent cream cheese layer that melts beautifully into every bite. It's a weeknight dinner hero, a potluck favorite, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole delivers all the flavor of traditional spaghetti with an irresistible creamy twist.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Creamy, Cheesy, and Comforting: This dish takes a beloved classic and elevates it with luscious cream cheese and gooey melted mozzarella.

Easy to Make Ahead: Perfect for prepping in advance and popping in the oven when ready.

Family Friendly: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.

Great for Freezing: Make two – eat one, freeze one!

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🧾 Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Base:

12 ounces spaghetti

The heart of the casserole — perfectly al dente pasta provides structure and soaks up the sauce beautifully.

For the Meat Sauce:

1 pound lean ground beef

Adds protein and hearty flavor. Lean beef keeps the dish rich without being greasy.

1 (28-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce

Brings in the bold Italian tomato flavor with herbs and spices. Choose a quality sauce or make your own for extra depth.

For the Creamy Layer:

1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened

The star ingredient that transforms traditional spaghetti into something luxurious and comforting.

1 clove garlic, minced

Adds aromatic depth and a subtle zing that balances the richness of the cream cheese.

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

A classic blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that enhances the overall flavor.

1 pinch garlic salt

Intensifies the savory notes and adds seasoning to the creamy base.

For the Topping:

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Adds a nutty, salty bite that crisps beautifully on top.

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Melts into a golden, gooey finish that makes this dish irresistible.

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 12 minutes. Drain well.

3. Make the Meat Sauce

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.

4. Mix the Creamy Pasta Layer

While the pasta is still hot, place it in a large mixing bowl. Add softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and coats the pasta evenly.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Spoon a small amount of meat sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add the cream cheese spaghetti mixture, then top with the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.

6. Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top.

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🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Use softened cream cheese to ensure it melts quickly and blends smoothly with the pasta.

Undercook your pasta slightly if you’re baking the dish later — it will continue cooking in the oven.

Customize your sauce with sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Let it rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole with:

A fresh garden salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness

Garlic bread or warm rolls for soaking up extra sauce

A glass of Chianti or Merlot for a restaurant-worthy dinner at home

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💬 Why This Recipe is a Fan Favorite

Thousands of home cooks love this casserole for its comforting texture, satisfying flavor, and simple preparation. It's the kind of meal that makes everyone around the table feel instantly at home. The combination of creamy cheese and savory sauce with pasta creates a nostalgic flavor that’s both indulgent and familiar.

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📝 Final Thoughts

If you're craving something that's easy, cheesy, and totally crave-worthy, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is your go-to recipe. With just a few simple steps and pantry staples, you can create a dish that tastes like a hug in every bite.

Don’t forget to save, print, or share this recipe — you’ll want it in your regular dinner rotation. Whether you're cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this casserole delivers every time.

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Ready to impress with minimal effort? Make this once, and it’ll become a forever favorite. Try it tonight and 

taste the magic!

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Want the printable version? Let me know, and I’ll generate a clean, printer-friendly format for your kitchen use!