Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can beat a hearty casserole. And if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s both delicious and easy to make, then look no further than this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole. This creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. So, let’s dive right in and learn how to make this scrumptious casserole.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

1 pound spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping:

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

Steps

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Cook it until it’s al dente, which means it’s cooked through but still firm to the bite. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes into the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cream Cheese

In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined and smooth. Add this creamy mixture to the skillet with the meat sauce. Stir well until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Next, add a layer of cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce. Repeat this layering process, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.

Step 6: Add the Cheese Topping

In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheesy topping will add a delightful crunch and flavor to the dish.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese topping turns golden brown. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is quite versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Vegetarian Option:

If you prefer a meatless version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté the veggies before adding the tomatoes to ensure they’re cooked through.

Spicy Twist:

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of spiciness.

Cheese Lover’s Delight:

If you’re a fan of cheese, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the topping. Try adding some cheddar or Gouda cheese along with the mozzarella for an extra cheesy flavor.

Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole turns out perfectly:

For a more flavorful sauce, you can add some chopped fresh basil and parsley to the meat sauce.
If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making the meat sauce from scratch.
Feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if you have dietary restrictions or prefer a healthier option.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

There’s something truly comforting about a warm and cheesy casserole, and this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole hits all the right spots. With its creamy meat sauce, al dente spaghetti, and crunchy cheese topping, it’s a dish that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to indulge in a delicious and satisfying meal.

FAQs

Can I freeze the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Assemble the casserole as instructed, but instead of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of spaghetti?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully in this recipe, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni will all work well in this casserole.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef if you prefer. Keep in mind that turkey has less fat, so the meat sauce may be slightly leaner, but still delicious.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe, as written, is not spicy. However, if you enjoy heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce to give it a kick.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to get cooking! Treat yourself and your loved ones to a comforting and delicious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that will warm your hearts and satisfy your taste buds.