There’s just something incredibly comforting about a creamy pasta dish, isn’t there? It feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening! And let me tell you, this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is one of my absolute favorites. The twist of using cream cheese adds a luscious, smooth texture that takes your classic spaghetti to a whole new level. I remember the first time I made this for my family; they were instantly hooked! The way the cheese melts into the spaghetti and marinara sauce is pure magic. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a staple in your home, too. It’s creamy, cheesy, and so satisfying—perfect for any night of the week!
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious casserole! Here’s what you’ll need, along with some handy tips to make your prep a breeze:
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked according to package instructions and drained—this is the base of our dish, so pick your favorite brand!
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened—this gives our casserole its creamy, dreamy texture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese—because who can resist that gooey, melty goodness? It’s a must for topping!
- 1 cup marinara sauce—choose your favorite jarred sauce or whip up a quick homemade version. It adds a tangy, flavorful kick.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese—this adds a nice depth of flavor. Freshly grated is always a winner if you have it!
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder—for that aromatic touch, trust me, it makes a difference!
- 1/2 tsp onion powder—adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning—a little sprinkle of this brings everything together with those classic Italian flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste—don’t forget to season! Adjust to your liking for the perfect balance of flavors.
Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to dive into making this delightful casserole! It’s all about those simple, quality ingredients that come together to create something truly special.
How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Getting this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole ready is super simple and so rewarding! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. Let’s break it down together!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is essential because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that gorgeous golden bubbly top. So don’t skip this step—it’ll make a world of difference!
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Next up, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Usually, it’s a quick boil in salted water for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once it’s done, be sure to drain it well. Nobody wants a watery casserole, right?
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy base is what makes our casserole so dreamy!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Here comes the fun part! Add your cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce to the cheese mixture. Gently stir everything together until it’s well combined. You want to make sure every noodle is coated in that creamy goodness—this is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Transfer and Top
Now, take your mixture and transfer it to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure it fills the dish nicely. Then, sprinkle that glorious mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Don’t be shy—more cheese means more flavor!
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Pop your casserole in the preheated oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden. Oh, the smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This little resting time helps everything set and makes it easier to dish out. Trust me, you’ll want to enjoy every cheesy bite without it falling apart!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s a true crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together. Here’s why you’ll absolutely adore it:
- Quick to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this mouthwatering dish ready in no time. Perfect for those busy nights!
- Creamy texture: The cream cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that envelops each spaghetti strand. It’s comfort food at its finest!
- Cheesy goodness: Topped with melty mozzarella and savory Parmesan, every bite is a cheesy delight that will leave you craving more.
- Customizable: Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies or proteins like chicken or sausage—this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious!
- Hearty meal: It’s filling enough to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings.
Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds (or thirds) of this creamy, cheesy masterpiece!
Tips for Success
If you want to take your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole to the next level, I’ve got some expert tips that’ll help you nail it every time! Let’s make sure this dish turns out perfectly delicious:
- Adjust the seasonings: Don’t hesitate to taste your cheese mixture before adding the spaghetti. If you like a bolder flavor, feel free to increase the garlic or Italian seasoning. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it yours!
- Ensure even baking: Make sure your casserole is spread out evenly in the dish. If it’s too thick in some spots, it might not cook through properly. A nice, even layer will help it bake beautifully and get that golden top!
- Optional ingredient enhancements: Consider adding some sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor. You can also mix in cooked proteins like shredded chicken or Italian sausage for a heartier meal.
- Watch the baking time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole. If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning while still letting it cook through.
- Let it rest: I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven allows it to set up nicely. This makes serving easier and improves the overall texture.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole that will wow your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional aspects of your meals is important, especially when it comes to creamy and cheesy dishes like this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole. Here’s a general estimate of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 15g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose and any modifications you make. It’s a delightful balance of flavors and textures, and while it’s comfort food at its best, it’s nice to be mindful of what’s in it. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
FAQ About Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Got questions about this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my trusty answers to help you out:
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you love. Penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
If cream cheese isn’t available, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese for a lighter texture. It won’t be quite as creamy, but it will still taste delicious! Just make sure to mix it well to combine with the seasonings.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! This casserole is super versatile. You can add cooked veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a nutritious boost. Just sauté them beforehand to enhance their flavor before folding them into the mixture.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can! If you want to make it ahead of time, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
What sides pair well with this dish?
This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a delightful combo. The crunch of a salad balances the creaminess beautifully!
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Oh, absolutely! Kids love the cheesy goodness and comforting flavors. It’s a great way to get them excited about pasta and vegetables, too. Just watch out for the melty cheese—it’s a guaranteed hit!
Hope this helps clear up any questions you had! Enjoy making your casserole, and don’t hesitate to get creative with it. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole properly is key to enjoying those delicious leftovers! After you’ve savored your meal, let any remaining casserole cool completely. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors locked in and prevents it from drying out in the fridge. You can store it for about 3-4 days, but trust me, it’ll be hard to resist finishing it sooner!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating it is super simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) again. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it loosely with aluminum foil—this helps retain moisture and heat it through evenly. Pop it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed all the way through. If you want that cheesy top to get a little crispy, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t over-brown!
You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it moist), and heat it in 30-second intervals until hot. Remember to check and stir it a bit to avoid any cold spots!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this creamy, cheesy casserole for days to come. Enjoy every bite!
Imprimer
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: 2 Ways to Indulge
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
A creamy and cheesy spaghetti casserole baked to perfection.
Ingrédients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce to the cheese mixture; stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add cooked vegetables or proteins like chicken or sausage for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Dinner
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 18g
- Graisses Saturées: 10g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 6g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 35g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 15g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 60mg
Mots-clés: baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole
