Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a brilliantly layered dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory meat sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, creating a spectacular medley of flavors and textures that will quickly become a beloved classic in your home. This casserole strikes the perfect balance between rich cream cheese and zesty tomato sauce, making every bite utterly satisfying and unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding richness and creaminess to delivering that irresistible cheesy and savory punch. Let’s take a closer look:

• Spaghetti (1 pound): The perfect pasta base with just the right firmness to hold up well in a casserole.
• Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): Adds lush creaminess that makes the texture irresistibly smooth.
• Butter (1/2 cup, melted): Enhances richness and helps meld the cream cheese with the pasta.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste.
• Milk (1/4 cup): Lightens up the cream cheese mixture for easier coating.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle savory kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the taste perfectly; remember seasoning is key!
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat to enhance depth.
• Spaghetti sauce (1 jar, 24 ounces): Brings that classic tomato tang and herbaceous aroma.
• Ground beef (1 pound): Provides hearty protein and a rich meaty base.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and texture after cooking down.
• Green bell pepper (1, chopped): Gives freshness and a slight crunch.
• Diced tomatoes and green chilies (1 can, 10 ounces, undrained): Introduces bursts of bright, slightly spicy flavor.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend of herbs that ties the sauce together beautifully.
• Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts into gooey layers of cheesy delight.

How to Make Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. Browning the beef thoroughly is essential—it builds the deep, savory foundation your casserole depends on.

Step 2: Cook the Onion and Green Bell Pepper

Once the beef is browned and drained, toss in the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Let them sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften, which will add a lovely sweetness and slight crunch that complements the meat.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Chilies, and Seasoning

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and green chilies, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. These ingredients brighten the sauce, adding a touch of spice and herbal notes that make every spoonful exciting.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

Reduce your heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for at least 15 minutes, giving those flavors time to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and deepen the taste.

Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce simmers, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is al dente—firm but not mushy. Properly cooked pasta provides the best texture contrast in your casserole.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the melted butter, stirring until the mix becomes silky smooth. This creamy base is what makes this recipe so irresistibly indulgent.

Step 7: Add Parmesan Cheese and Milk

Next, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese and milk. These ingredients lighten the texture and add layers of nutty flavor that marry perfectly with the cream cheese and pasta.

Step 8: Season the Cream Cheese Blend

Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then taste your mixture to adjust the seasoning. These subtle additions enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the dish.

Step 9: Combine Spaghetti and Cream Cheese Mixture

Pour the cooked spaghetti into the bowl with the cream cheese blend. Toss gently but thoroughly so every strand is coated in that creamy goodness—this step ensures a rich, velvety texture throughout your casserole.

Step 10: Layer the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and start layering: spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly on the bottom, then top with half of the meat sauce, and sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over it.

Step 11: Repeat Layers

Carefully repeat the layers using the remaining spaghetti mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese for a wonderfully cheesy, dual-layered casserole perfect for feeding a crowd.

Step 12: Bake to Perfection

Pop your assembled casserole into a 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for the cheese to melt into bubbly goodness with golden brown spots on top—this is your cue that it’s ready.

Step 13: Let It Rest

Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This waiting period helps the layers settle, making it easier to slice and enhancing every mouthwatering bite.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Finish off your casserole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, which bring refreshing crunch and help balance the creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation, or add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a dusting of Parmesan cheese right before serving to add a gourmet flair that will impress every guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Make sure it cools completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to preserve freshness and prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven until heated through and bubbly again. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps maintain creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully here, penne, rotini, or rigatoni are also great options to hold the creamy mixture and sauce.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or your favorite vegetables to maintain a hearty and flavorful dish.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Definitely. Assemble the casserole the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when you are ready to serve.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Cream cheese is key for the signature creaminess, but you could try ricotta or a mixture of cream and softened mascarpone for a different but still delicious experience.

How spicy is this casserole?

The casserole has just a mild kick from the diced tomatoes and green chilies, making it suitable for most palates. You can adjust the spice level by omitting or adding more chilies.

Final Thoughts

This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is a complete winner for anyone who loves comfort food with a creamy, cheesy twist. Its layers of flavor, hearty textures, and easy prep make it a fantastic go-to meal that’s sure to please your family and friends. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a dinner favorite in your home!

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