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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Creamy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole for Cozy Nights

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole transforms a simple weeknight meal into a cozy event that is rich, satisfying, and perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Spaghetti Noodles Cook until just tender.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound Ground Beef or Italian Sausage Can substitute with ground turkey.
  • 1 jar Jarred Marinara or Pasta Sauce Choose your favorite brand.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh or powder.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Creamy Layer
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese Softened.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream or Plain Greek Yogurt Can lighten the dish.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella For melting.
  • to taste Parmesan Cheese Optional.
For Assembly
  • 1 tablespoon Butter To toss with spaghetti.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the spaghetti by boiling salted water, add noodles and cook until just tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with butter.
  2. Prepare the meat sauce by browning ground beef or sausage in a skillet for 5-7 minutes. Add marinara, garlic, and Italian seasoning, then simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Create the creamy layer by mixing softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, and thin with warm pasta water if necessary.
  4. Layer the casserole by spreading half of the spaghetti in a baking dish, then the cream cheese layer, followed by the remaining spaghetti.
  5. Add the meat sauce over the spaghetti and top with mozzarella, sprinkling Parmesan if desired.
  6. Bake covered with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  7. Rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure spaghetti is al dente to avoid overcooking in the oven. Softened cream cheese is essential for a smooth layer. Bake covered initially to keep moisture and uncover for a golden finish. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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