Last winter, after a long day tending to my herb garden and re-reading one of my old classroom journals, I wanted something cozy and nostalgic for dinner—but with a twist.
I had a bit of cream cheese left from a holiday cheesecake, half a jar of marinara from the night before, and a lingering memory of the baked spaghetti my neighbor used to bring to our church potlucks. She always added something creamy that gave the pasta this comforting, melt-in-your-mouth finish. I never asked her what her secret was, but that evening, I decided to experiment.
My kitchen smelled like tomato-basil heaven, with garlic wafting through the air as the casserole bubbled in the oven. I peeked through the oven window like a kid waiting for cookies. The result? A creamy, cheesy, golden-topped spaghetti dish that instantly reminded me of warm dinners around the family table—with a modern upgrade.
It wasn’t just a hit with me. I shared it with my grandkids the following weekend, and let me tell you—there wasn’t a noodle left in sight. Even my husband, who prefers his pasta plain, asked for seconds. This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole has earned a permanent spot in my kitchen rotation, and I’m thrilled to pass it along to you.
Short Description
A rich and creamy baked spaghetti casserole layered with marinara, tangy cream cheese, and a bubbly, golden cheese topping. Perfect for cozy family dinners or prepping ahead for busy nights.
Key Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Tools Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Medium pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cooking spray or butter
- Oven-safe spatula or serving spoon
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente—tender with a slight bite. Drain and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. Add the marinara sauce and mix well. If you’re using beef or sausage, fold it in here for extra depth.
Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti
Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce mixture, gently folding until every strand is coated. Stir in half the mozzarella to create a cheesy base.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the spaghetti mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan for a beautifully golden finish.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like cheesy heaven.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh pop of green. Slice, serve warm, and enjoy that creamy, savory perfection.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Easy weeknight dinner with pantry staples
– Kid-approved and crowd-friendly
– Make-ahead friendly for busy schedules
– Can be adapted with veggies or proteins
– A satisfying twist on traditional baked spaghetti
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Mistake 1: Pasta is too soft or mushy
Overcooked pasta will break down when baked.
Solution: Cook until just al dente; it will finish cooking in the oven.
Mistake 2: Lumpy cream cheese sauce
Cold cream cheese doesn’t blend well.
Solution: Let the cream cheese soften fully at room temperature, or microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Mistake 3: Dry casserole
This happens if there’s not enough sauce.
Solution: Use the full jar of marinara and don’t skip the sour cream—it keeps everything moist.
Mistake 4: Uneven cheese topping
If the cheese isn’t spread properly, some bites may lack flavor.
Solution: Sprinkle cheese evenly, all the way to the edges.
Mistake 5: Casserole sticks to the dish
Cheese and sauce can cling to the pan.
Solution: Always grease the baking dish well.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a hearty main dish with:
– A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
– Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls
– Roasted vegetables (like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus)
For gatherings, present it family-style at the table or keep it warm in a buffet setting. It also pairs nicely with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap cooled casserole tightly with foil and freeze up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave (about 1–2 minutes), or cover and reheat the whole dish at 325°F for 15–20 minutes. Add a splash of marinara if it looks dry.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it (covered) for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
2. Can I substitute the cream cheese with something lighter?
You can use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt, though the texture will be less rich.
3. What meat works best in this dish?
Ground beef or Italian sausage adds the most flavor. You could also use ground turkey for a lighter option.
4. Can I use whole-wheat or gluten-free spaghetti?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooked al dente so it doesn’t break apart.
5. How do I keep the cheese from overbrowning?
If the top is browning too fast, tent the dish with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Tips & Tricks
Mix in a handful of spinach or chopped mushrooms for added nutrition.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melt and flavor.
Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a spicy kick.
If your sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of pasta water.
Let the casserole rest before serving to help it set.
Recipe Variations
1. Vegetarian Twist:
Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach instead. Cook the veggies first, then stir into the sauce before combining with pasta.
2. Spicy Kick:
Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce and use hot Italian sausage for extra heat.
3. Tex-Mex Style:
Use a spicy tomato salsa instead of marinara, swap mozzarella for shredded cheddar, and top with sliced black olives and green onions before baking.
4. Chicken Alfredo Version:
Replace marinara with 2 cups of Alfredo sauce, omit the Parmesan, and add 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken. Swap Italian seasoning for dried basil.
5. Pesto Mushroom Variation:
Add 2 tablespoons of pesto to the sauce mixture and fold in sautéed mushrooms for a rich, herbaceous twist.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is one of those recipes that makes a weeknight feel special and a weekend meal feel effortless. Over time, I’ve found myself reaching for this one whenever I want something that makes people feel at home—whether it’s just my husband and me or the grandkids running wild in the living room.
The beauty lies in how easy it is to adapt, personalize, and pass along. You can dress it up or keep it simple. Either way, it always satisfies. That’s what I love most—good food, easy memories, and recipes worth repeating.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Print ThisIngredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Mix cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in marinara sauce. Add cooked beef or sausage if using.
Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti
Toss spaghetti into the sauce. Stir in half the mozzarella until evenly coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture in the baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and all the Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley, slice, and serve warm.
