Why Make This Recipe
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together the goodness of creamy cheese and pasta in a warm, hearty meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a delicious, easy-to-make dish that pleases everyone. This recipe is especially great when you want to prepare something ahead of time and just pop it in the oven when the time is right.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions; then drain the pasta.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, then sauté until they are soft.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, drained diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Add the meat mixture and combine everything well.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Serve this casserole warm, straight from the oven. It goes well with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top for extra flavor and a touch of color.
How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will be good for up to three months.
Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
- If you want a little spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
- You can use any type of pasta you like, not just spaghetti.
- Feel free to sneak in some veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, into the mixture for added nutrition.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese and sour cream with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. You can also use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta if necessary.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Just assemble it, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready to serve.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can try using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a cheese blend to change the flavor.
Is this meal good for freezing?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it up for the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.