Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that brings together rich cream cheese, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a delicious twist on classic spaghetti with a creamy, cheesy texture.

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (24 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Step 3: Stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally for deeper flavor if desired.
5. Step 5: While the meat sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
6. Step 6: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and melted butter.
7. Step 7: Add the grated Parmesan cheese and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.
8. Step 8: Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
9. Step 9: Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Toss gently to coat evenly.
10. Step 10: Pour half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
11. Step 11: Spoon half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti layer. Spread evenly.
12. Step 12: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat sauce.
13. Step 13: Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
14. Step 14: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. The top should be lightly golden brown.
15. Step 15: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add chopped mushrooms or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra veggies.
• For a spicier kick, substitute diced tomatoes and green chilies with jalapeños or add red pepper flakes.
• Make it vegetarian by replacing the meat with sautéed lentils or a plant-based ground beef alternative.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with ricotta cheese for a slightly lighter texture, but it will change the creamy richness of the dish slightly. Soft goat cheese is another option for a tangier flavor.