Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Creamy Baked Pasta 🧀🍝✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a **kid-friendly supper** that combines the rich creaminess of cheese with the satisfying heartiness of pasta, then this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is your perfect solution. This recipe creates a delicious, cheesy, and savory meal that everyone in the family will love. Ideal as **sides for spaghetti dinner** or a main course, this creamy baked pasta is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a comforting weekend meal, this **cream cheese casserole** is sure to become a family favorite.
2. Ingredients for Your Cream Cheese Casserole
- 12 oz of spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken or ground beef (optional for extra protein)
- 2 cups of your favorite pasta sauce
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
3. How to Make the Perfect Creamy Baked Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside. For more family-friendly pasta ideas, check out this baked mac and cheese recipe that also features cheesy comfort food.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. This mixture will give your casserole the rich, Velveeta-like consistency that makes it so irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold in your cooked chicken or ground beef if using, along with the pasta sauce. Stir until everything is well coated, creating a luscious, creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese for that perfect cheesy crust. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. For more delicious cheesy casseroles, explore this cheesy hashbrown casserole.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. This creamy baked pasta can be paired with a side salad or breadsticks for a complete meal. Looking for more comforting dinners with cheese or meatball recipes?
4. Tips for Making the Best Cream Cheese Casserole
- Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Customize with vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate for an even easier weeknight dinner.
- Feel free to substitute pasta types to suit your taste or dietary needs.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
This cream cheese casserole stores well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly. For best results, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to maintain the creaminess. If you’re planning to make this dish in advance, it makes an excellent make-ahead meal.
6. Serving Suggestions for Your Creamy Baked Pasta
Complement this dish with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. It’s also perfect for pairing with other pasta dishes or serving alongside meat and rice options. The versatility of this creamy baked pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or romantic evenings.
7. FAQs About Cream Cheese Casseroles
Q1: Can I use cream cheese substitute in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor or to reduce calorie content, maintaining the creamy texture.
Q2: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta varieties to adapt this Cream Cheese Casserole for gluten-free meals.
Q3: How do I make this casserole spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for extra heat. It’s a great way to add a kick to this comforting dish.
8. Related Recipes and Ideas
9. Conclusion
The Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole offers a delightful combination of creamy textures and savory flavors, making it a must-try for anyone who loves cozy, cheesy comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, versatile with ingredients, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. By incorporating simple ingredients like cream cheese, pasta, and your favorite sauce, you can create a delicious **cream cheese casserole** that will impress family and friends alike. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying dinner that combines the best of creamy baked pasta recipes and kid-friendly meals!
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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Flexitarian
Description
Discover the creamy, cheesy goodness of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole – the ultimate comfort food perfect for weeknights, family dinners, and gatherings. This easy-to-make baked pasta combines tender spaghetti, rich cream cheese, and melty cheeses for a savory, kid-friendly dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 oz of spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken or ground beef (optional for extra protein)
- 2 cups of your favorite pasta sauce
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold in cooked chicken or ground beef if using, along with the pasta sauce. Stir until well coated.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Pair with salad or breadsticks for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate to save time.
- You can substitute different pasta types to suit your dietary preferences.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
