Description
A rich, comforting twist on classic spaghetti, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole layers creamy cheese-coated noodles, savory meat sauce, and melted mozzarella into a bubbling, golden casserole perfect for family dinners or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 3 cups marinara or pasta sauce
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for greasing the dish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the warm pasta with softened cream cheese until fully coated.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
- Layer half of the pasta in the dish, followed by half of the meat sauce. Repeat layers.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and optional parmesan on top.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.