Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

A creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta bake that’s pure comfort food magic.

Introduction

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into a cozy, satisfying feast. Imagine tender spaghetti coated in a luscious cream cheese mixture, layered with savory meat sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese, and baked to golden perfection. This recipe takes the best of spaghetti night and adds a creamy twist that will make it an instant family favorite.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Pasta & Cream Cheese Layer

  • 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Topping

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1 – Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook spaghetti until al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions).
  3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2 – Prepare the Meat Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef/sausage over medium heat until browned.
  2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  4. Add marinara sauce, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3 – Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4 – Assemble the Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom.
  3. Toss cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture, then spread over the sauce.
  4. Top with the remaining meat sauce.
  5. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.

Step 5 – Bake & Serve

  1. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
  3. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Methods

  • For a lighter version, use light cream cheese and ground turkey.
  • Make ahead by assembling the bake and refrigerating overnight; bake the next day.
  • Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra veggies.
  • For a tangy twist, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce.

History

While traditional baked pasta dishes like lasagna have been around for centuries in Italy, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a modern American comfort food invention. It likely originated in home kitchens in the mid-20th century when cream cheese became widely available, offering a creamy variation on baked spaghetti that was simpler than layered lasagna.

Benefits

  • Comfort Factor: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and gatherings.
  • Customizable: Works with any protein or veggies.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Saves time for busy weeknights.

Formation (Serving Suggestions)

  • Serve with garlic bread and a fresh garden salad.
  • Pair with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli.
  • Enjoy with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate family-friendly comfort meal—rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. From the creamy layers to the golden, cheesy topping, every bite feels like a hug on a plate.

For the Lovers

  • Cheese Lovers: Gooey mozzarella and tangy cream cheese make this irresistible.
  • Pasta Lovers: Perfectly coated spaghetti that’s soft but not mushy.
  • Comfort Food Lovers: A dish that soothes the soul and fills the belly.

Methods (Again)

  • Try using penne or rigatoni instead of spaghetti for a different texture.
  • Make it vegetarian by skipping meat and using marinara with sautéed veggies.
  • Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a sharper flavor.

Conclusion (Again)

From busy weeknights to special Sunday dinners, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti delivers a perfect balance of creaminess, savory depth, and cheesy indulgence. One pan, minimal fuss, maximum flavor.

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