Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. With layers of spaghetti, tangy cream cheese, and hearty meat sauce, this casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 (26 oz) jar prepared spaghetti sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Cook the Meat Sauce:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the prepared spaghetti sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
3️⃣ Cook the Spaghetti:
Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and transfer the cooked spaghetti to a large bowl.
4️⃣ Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and minced garlic to the spaghetti. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the spaghetti is evenly coated.
5️⃣ Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
Add the spaghetti mixture on top of the sauce and spread evenly.
Top with the remaining meat sauce.
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6️⃣ Bake the Casserole:
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
7️⃣ Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if cold.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Optional Additions: Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra veggies. Swap Parmesan for mozzarella for a gooey topping.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins