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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven Recipe
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★★★★★

5 from 13 reviews

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and indulgent pasta dish combining tender spaghetti with a creamy blend of cream cheese, marinara sauce, and melted cheeses. Baked to golden perfection and sprinkled with fresh herbs, this casserole makes a perfect family dinner that’s both rich and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz spaghetti

Cheese & Dairy

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)

Sauce & Seasonings

  • 2 cups marinara or your favorite tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream (if using) until smooth. Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture. Pour in the marinara sauce and gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
  4. Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses over the pasta. Layer the remaining pasta on top, then finish with the remaining shredded cheeses.
  5. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
  6. Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

  • You can substitute the spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini.
  • For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cheese or use reduced-fat varieties.
  • Adding cooked ground beef or sausage makes a great variation for a meatier casserole.
  • Sour cream is optional but adds extra creaminess and tanginess.
  • Make sure to soften the cream cheese well to ensure a smooth mixture.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked spaghetti casserole, cream cheese pasta bake, cheesy spaghetti casserole, easy baked pasta, comfort food casserole

Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/baked-cream-cheese-spaghetti-casserole-heaven-recipe/