Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Imagine a rich, creamy, and cheesy spaghetti bake with beautifully golden edges. It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner, and guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and a generous amount of mozzarella and parmesan creates a velvety sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish or simply want to treat yourself, this casserole is a must-try!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- Fresh basil or parsley for topping
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
Step 2: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain well. Al dente is best so the pasta doesn’t get mushy in the oven.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creates the creamy base of the casserole. Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
Step 4: Toss the cooked spaghetti in the cream cheese mixture until every strand is well coated. This ensures a consistent flavor throughout the casserole.
Step 5: Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into a baking dish. A 9×13 inch dish works great.
Step 6: Pour half of the marinara sauce over the spaghetti in the dish.
Step 7: Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top of the marinara sauce.
Step 8: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top layer of spaghetti.
Step 9: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan evenly over the entire casserole. This creates a cheesy, golden crust when baked.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 11: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Step 12: Serve warm and enjoy!
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe is a winner because it’s:
- Comforting: It’s the perfect dish for a cozy night in.
- Easy to make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, it’s great for busy weeknights.
- Crowd-pleasing: Everyone loves a cheesy pasta bake!
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with added proteins or vegetables.
- Make-ahead friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when needed.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Tips:
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the sauce.
- Cook spaghetti al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- For a richer flavor, use a high-quality marinara sauce.
- Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or vegetables between layers for a heartier casserole.
- To prevent the top from browning too quickly, cover the dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: 20-25g
- Sodium: 700-900mg
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Conclusion
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and comforting, making it an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a truly delightful meal!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add about 10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
Q2: Can I add meat to this casserole?
A: Absolutely! Cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken would be delicious additions. Add them between the layers of spaghetti.
Q3: What kind of sauce is best for this recipe?
A: A good quality marinara sauce is ideal, but you can also use a homemade tomato sauce or even a creamy pesto sauce for a different flavor profile.
Q4: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Of course! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique twist.
Q5: Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
