Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

2. Prepare the Pasta Base:

• In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until the spaghetti is well coated and creamy.

3. Cook the Meat Sauce (Optional):

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in the marinara sauce, simmering for 5 minutes to combine flavors.

4. Assemble the Casserole:

• Spread half of the creamy spaghetti mixture in the bottom of the prepared dish. Layer half of the meat sauce on top (if using). Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti and sauce.

5. Add the Cheese Topping:

• Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.

6. Bake:

• Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

7. Let it Rest:

• Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy casserole with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that reheats beautifully for leftovers.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole combines the best of creamy pasta and cheesy baked goodness. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection!