Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: A Delicious & Kid-Friendly Meal to Satisfy Everyone 🍝🧀✨
1. Introduction
Looking for a comforting, creamy, and easy dinner idea that the whole family will love? The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect solution! This white pasta casserole combines creamy cheese, tender spaghetti, and flavorful ingredients into a hearty, kid-friendly supper that’s quick to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re searching for easy recipes for kids to make for dinner or a delicious yet simple dinner to impress guests, this creamy baked pasta dish hits the spot. Let’s dive into crafting this delightful creme cheese casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
2. Ingredients for the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup cooked bacon bits or cooked chicken (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare the Creamy Spaghetti Casserole
Prepare the Pasta
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Mix in the cream of mushroom or chicken soup, then add salt and pepper to taste. For a richer flavor, you can incorporate some grated Parmesan cheese.
Combine Pasta with the Creamy Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Mix well to coat all strands evenly. Incorporate cooked bacon bits or cooked chicken if desired for extra flavor.
Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
4. Storage Tips for Your Cream Cheese Casserole
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly. For longer storage, consider freezing portions and reheating when needed. This creamy baked pasta maintains its texture well when frozen.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Kid-Friendly Supper
Serve your white pasta casserole hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Garnish with chopped parsley for added color and freshness. It pairs beautifully with soup or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is perfect when you want a dinner with a cheesy twist that kids will love and adults will appreciate for its creamy goodness.
6. Variations to Customize Your Cream Cheese Casserole
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies
- Use ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a hearty protein boost (ground beef hot honey bowl)
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce
- Use different cheeses like cheddar or Gouda for unique flavors
7. FAQs About Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Q: How long does it take to prepare this creamy spaghetti casserole?
Preparation time is approximately 10-15 minutes, with an additional 20-25 minutes baking time to achieve a bubbly, golden top.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover, and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Q: What are some kid-friendly variations of this cream cheese casserole?
Incorporate familiar flavors like cooked chicken, mild cheeses, and hidden veggies to make it more appealing for picky eaters. For more inspiration, check out these kid-friendly breakfast casseroles.
8. Conclusion
The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a versatile, satisfying, and incredibly easy dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re seeking dinners with cream cheese or a cheesy pasta recipe that’s loved by children and adults alike, this dish hits all the right notes. With simple ingredients, quick preparation, and adaptable flavors, you’ll enjoy making and sharing this white pasta casserole time and again. Try it out tonight and turn any ordinary evening into a special occasion with this creamy, cheesy delight!
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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-friendly, Comfort food
Description
Discover the comforting and creamy Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, a kid-friendly and easy dinner recipe perfect for busy weeknights. This cheesy pasta bake combines tender spaghetti, rich cream cheese, and flavorful ingredients, making it a family favorite that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup cooked bacon bits or cooked chicken (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Mix in the cream of mushroom or chicken soup, then season with salt and pepper. Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Mix well to coat all strands evenly. Stir in cooked bacon bits or cooked chicken if using.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top evenly with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- You can customize with cooked bacon, chicken, or vegetables for added flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
- For a dairy-free or lower-fat version, use plant-based cheese alternatives or reduce cheese quantities.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 72g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
