why make this recipe
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the joy of pasta with creamy cheese goodness. This recipe is great for feeding a family or for meal prep. It’s simple to make, and you can enjoy it as a main dish for dinner. The flavors blend together beautifully, making each bite a delight. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making your life easier on busy days.
how to make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Serve the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole hot from the oven. Garnish with extra cheese or fresh herbs like basil or parsley if desired. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
how to store Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it tightly and label it for future use.
tips to make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- Make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente, as it will continue cooking while baking.
- For added flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the cheese mixture.
- If you like a bit of spice, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
variation
You can change up the types of cheese used in this casserole. Switch mozzarella for cheddar or add in some crumbled feta for a different flavor. You can also replace marinara sauce with Alfredo for a creamy twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type.
3. How do I reheat the leftovers?
To reheat, place the portion in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave it for quick reheating.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces spaghetti Cook until al dente.
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Cheeses
- 1 cup cream cheese Softened for easy mixing.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- salt Salt to taste
- pepper Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For drizzling on top before baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.