There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy baked pasta dish, and this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole delivers that comfort in every bite. With tender spaghetti tossed in a silky cream cheese mixture, savory meat sauce layered over top, and plenty of melted cheese baked to perfection, this casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dinner that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
The first time I made this, I folded a little garlic powder and Italian seasoning into the cream cheese layer — it gave the casserole an extra depth of flavor that made it irresistible. I’ve also tried using a blend of mozzarella and provolone on top, which created a beautifully golden, melty finish. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a crowd, and it reheats beautifully for leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. The cream cheese mixture keeps the pasta silky and prevents it from drying out in the oven, while the savory meat sauce adds richness and heartiness. It’s an easy, make-ahead-friendly dish that feels like classic spaghetti elevated into a cozy baked dinner. Kids and adults alike love its creamy texture and cheesy, bubbling top layer.
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, comforting pasta dish layered with creamy seasoned cream cheese spaghetti and a flavorful meat sauce, all baked together with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss until fully coated.
- Spread the creamy spaghetti mixture evenly into the baking dish.
- Pour the meat sauce over the pasta layer.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with melted golden cheese.
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use mild, hot, or Italian sausage for extra flavor.
- Make ahead: assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freeze baked or unbaked for up to 2 months.
- Try adding spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Spaghetti
The base of the casserole; holds up well and absorbs the creamy sauce.
Ground Beef or Italian Sausage
Adds savory flavor and richness to the meat sauce.
Cream Cheese
Creates a velvety coating that transforms traditional spaghetti into a creamy bake.
Marinara or Pasta Sauce
A rich tomato sauce that balances the creaminess and ties the casserole together.
Onion
Adds sweetness and depth to the meat sauce.
Garlic
Brings aromatic flavor essential to pasta dishes.
Italian Seasoning
A blend of herbs that enhances both the sauce and the creamy layer.
Butter
Helps smooth the cream cheese mixture and adds richness.
Mozzarella Cheese
Melts beautifully on top to create a gooey, golden finish.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds salty, nutty depth that complements the creamy spaghetti.
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning every layer.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage with onion until browned and tender. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently.
In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, butter, and a touch of Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until well coated. Spread the creamy spaghetti evenly into the prepared baking dish. Pour the meat sauce over top and spread it into an even layer.
Finish by sprinkling mozzarella and Parmesan generously over the surface. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra Parmesan if desired.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This casserole serves 6–8 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, baking takes 25–30 minutes, and resting requires an additional 10 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm larger portions in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through. This casserole also freezes well — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Version
Use spicy Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Three-Cheese Casserole
Add ricotta or provolone for a richer, cheesier result.
Vegetable Add-In
Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Swap beef for cooked shredded chicken for a milder variation.
Alfredo-Tomato Hybrid
Mix a tablespoon of Alfredo sauce into the cream cheese layer for a creamier flavor.
Pesto Drizzle
Add a swirl of pesto over the cheese before baking.
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your sauce is gluten-free.
Low-Carb Twist
Substitute spaghetti with cooked spaghetti squash.
Herb Lover’s Version
Add chopped fresh basil or parsley to the cream cheese mixture.
Extra Crunch Topping
Sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed garlic croutons before baking.
FAQs
What is Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?
A layered pasta bake combining creamy spaghetti and savory meat sauce topped with melted cheese.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rotini, or linguine work well.
Should the cream cheese be softened?
Yes, softened cream cheese mixes much more easily.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely — assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
Can I use jarred marinara?
Yes — choose your favorite brand for the best flavor.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook only to al dente before baking.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, skip the meat and add veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
What cheese works best on top?
Mozzarella for melt, Parmesan for flavor — use both if possible.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of sauce if needed.
Conclusion
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the definition of cozy, family-friendly comfort food. With its creamy spaghetti base, hearty meat sauce, and irresistible melted cheese topping, every bite is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. Perfect for gatherings, busy nights, or make-ahead meals, this casserole brings all the nostalgia of classic baked pasta with an indulgent, creamy twist. It’s sure to become a recipe you look forward to making again and again.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!