Name: Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb ground beef; 2 cups marinara sauce; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

I’ve always had a soft spot for baked pasta dishes, but the first time I tried this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, it was love at first bite. The way the creamy cheese melts into the savory meat sauce, wrapping every strand of spaghetti in luscious goodness—it’s the kind of comfort food that hugs you back. And when it comes out of the oven bubbling and golden on top, it’s downright irresistible. This recipe quickly earned its place in my weekly dinner rotation and never fails to win hearts at the table.

Whether I’m cooking for my family on a busy weeknight or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this dish delivers every time. It’s quick to assemble, packed with rich flavor, and feels just a little indulgent thanks to the velvety cream cheese. The best part? It’s as satisfying as lasagna but so much easier to throw together. If you love cheesy pasta and crave hearty, feel-good meals, this one’s going to be your new go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

This recipe combines everything we adore about baked pasta—creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles—into a no-fuss dish that’s both cozy and crowd-pleasing. It’s easy to customize, freezes beautifully, and tastes even better the next day. Plus, it gives off serious “hours-in-the-kitchen” energy with just a fraction of the effort.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?

While traditional spaghetti noodles are the star here (and my personal favorite for this dish), you can easily swap in other long pasta varieties like linguine or fettuccine. They all hold up well in the oven and soak up the creamy, cheesy sauce beautifully. Just make sure to cook your pasta al dente since it’ll continue to cook while baking—no one wants mushy noodles.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? No problem. This recipe is super flexible:

Meat: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of ground beef. Want to go meatless? Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based crumble.
Cheese: If you’re out of cream cheese, try ricotta or a mix of mascarpone and sour cream. Mozzarella can be swapped for provolone or a cheddar blend for a sharper bite.
Pasta: Penne, rotini, or rigatoni are all great choices if you prefer short pasta. They trap the sauce wonderfully.
Sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara, or make it homemade with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and basil.
Herbs: Fresh parsley is classic, but basil or oregano work well too for that herby finish.

Ingredients for This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Spaghetti
The foundation of the dish. It provides the perfect texture to cradle all that creamy, meaty sauce.
Ground Beef
Adds richness and heartiness. It brings depth to the sauce and makes this meal truly satisfying.
Marinara Sauce
A savory tomato base that binds everything together. It brings that classic Italian flavor we all crave.
Cream Cheese
The magic ingredient. It melts into the sauce and gives the spaghetti a smooth, luscious creaminess that sets this dish apart.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
For that gooey, melty top layer we all love in baked pasta dishes.
Parmesan Cheese
Adds a salty, nutty finish and helps crisp up the top while baking.
Garlic
A subtle kick of flavor that elevates the whole sauce.
Italian Seasoning
Blends beautifully with the marinara and beef, giving everything a warm, herbaceous balance.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Optional but recommended—it adds a pop of color and freshness to each bite.
Salt and Pepper
Simple but essential for seasoning every layer just right.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until just al dente—about 1 minute less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Marinara and Seasonings

Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 4: Mix Cream Cheese Into the Pasta

In a separate large bowl, combine the hot, drained spaghetti with softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and evenly coats the noodles.

Step 5: Layer Everything in a Baking Dish

Spread half the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with half the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, then sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly around the edges.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

How Long to Cook the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

The assembled dish should bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. If you prefer an extra toasty top, you can broil it for the last 2–3 minutes—just keep a close eye on it.

Tips for Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Cook pasta al dente: Since it continues cooking in the oven, slightly undercooking the noodles prevents them from getting too soft.
Use room temperature cream cheese: It blends into the pasta much easier, ensuring even creaminess without clumps.
Don’t skip the layering: Layering the pasta and sauce makes every bite flavorful and prevents the dish from drying out.
Drain excess fat from the beef: This keeps the sauce rich but not greasy.
Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes after baking so the layers can settle, making it easier to slice and serve.
Add extra cheese on top: For serious cheese lovers, a bit more mozzarella or even provolone can boost the gooey factor.
Customize the seasoning: Taste your sauce before assembling and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.
Use a deep baking dish: It helps keep the layers neat and prevents overflow during baking.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta: Remember, the pasta will bake further in the oven. If it’s too soft to start, it’ll turn mushy by the time it’s done baking. Stick to al dente.
Not Softening the Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese won’t melt evenly and could leave clumps. Let it sit at room temperature or warm it slightly to make mixing a breeze.
Forgetting to Drain the Meat: Excess grease from the beef can make the sauce oily and heavy. Always drain it before adding your marinara.
Skipping the Simmer Time: Letting the meat sauce simmer helps build flavor. Rushing this step can leave your sauce tasting flat.
Uneven Layering: Proper layering ensures each bite has the perfect balance of creamy pasta and meat sauce. Take your time when assembling.
Overloading with Cheese: More cheese sounds great, but too much can overpower the dish and make it overly rich. Stick to the amounts listed, or add just a little extra if desired.
Not Covering the Dish if Baking Ahead: If prepping it early, always cover it tightly with foil to avoid drying out before baking.
Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into it right out of the oven can make it fall apart. Let it settle for a few minutes for best results.

What to Serve With Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and tangy dressing balance the richness of the spaghetti.

Roasted Broccoli

A healthy, slightly crispy veggie side to keep things light.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a refreshing contrast.

Crusty Italian Bread

Rustic and simple, great for scooping up every last cheesy bite.

Cucumber and Red Onion Salad

Cool, crisp, and vinegary—a palate cleanser between bites.

Antipasto Platter

Cured meats, olives, and cheese to start your meal on a savory note.

A Glass of Red Wine

A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers? You’re in luck—Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti stores like a dream. Let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

In the fridge: Store for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
In the freezer: This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat: Add a splash of water or marinara before microwaving to loosen the sauce. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 8 servings)

Calories: 510
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 720mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients and serving sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze it before baking?

Yes! Assemble everything, cover well with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Ricotta cheese or a mix of sour cream and shredded mozzarella makes a great substitute if you’re out of cream cheese.

Is it okay to use jarred marinara sauce?

Definitely. A good-quality jarred marinara saves time and still delivers great flavor. If you like, you can add fresh herbs or garlic to enhance it.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers work wonderfully and add a bit more nutrition and texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You sure can. Skip the ground beef and use lentils, plant-based crumbles, or extra veggies for a satisfying meatless version.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through. In a hurry? Microwave individual portions with a splash of water or marinara.

Why is my spaghetti dry after baking?

This usually happens when the pasta is overcooked or there’s not enough sauce. Be sure to cook your pasta al dente and don’t skimp on the sauce when layering.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate feel-good dish—warm, cheesy, and full of bold, comforting flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that satisfies every time, whether you’re feeding a busy family or entertaining guests. With its creamy texture, hearty meat sauce, and golden cheesy topping, it brings together all the best parts of a baked pasta into one easy-to-make meal. Add it to your weekly menu—you’ll be glad you did.