๐๐๐ค๐๐ ๐๐ซ๐๐๐ฆ ๐๐ก๐๐๐ฌ๐ ๐๐ฉ๐๐ ๐ก๐๐ญ๐ญ๐ข ๐๐ง๐ฅฉ
Tender spaghetti tossed with creamy melted cream cheese, savory ground beef in rich tomato sauce, and topped with golden bubbling Parmesanโthe ultimate comfort food casserole that brings the whole family to the table!
Perfect for cozy dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a hearty, cheesy pasta bake.
๐๐๐ ๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐?
Because it combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with savory ground beef and spaghetti in a simple baked dish thatโs comforting and satisfying. This casserole layers flavors and textures to deliver a cheesy, meaty pasta dinner everyone will love.
โจ ๐๐ก๐ฒ ๐๐จ๐ฎโ๐ฅ๐ฅ ๐๐จ๐ฏ๐ ๐๐ญ
The cream cheese adds a luscious creaminess that elevates basic spaghetti into a rich, indulgent meal. The bubbling Parmesan crust on top seals in flavor and adds a perfect golden finish. Itโs easy to make, feeds a crowd, and reheats beautifully.
๐งพ Ingredients Youโll Need
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1 lb dried spaghetti ๐
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1 lb lean ground beef ๐ฅฉ
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce ๐
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8 oz cream cheese, softened ๐ง
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese ๐ง
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ยฝ cup grated Parmesan cheese ๐ง
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1 small onion, finely chopped ๐ง
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2 cloves garlic, minced ๐ง
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2 tablespoons olive oil ๐ซ
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Salt and pepper, to taste ๐ง
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Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional) ๐ฟ
๐ฉโ๐ณ How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
1. Cook the Spaghetti
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and sautรฉ until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, soften cream cheese by mixing until smooth. You can warm it slightly to make this easier. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and mix well.
4. Combine Spaghetti and Cream Cheese
Add cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss until evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half the spaghetti mixture. Spoon half the meat sauce over it. Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti and meat sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
6. Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10โ15 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
7. Serve
Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
๐งก Pro Tips & Tricks
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Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
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Donโt overcook spaghetti; it will finish cooking in the oven.
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Add sautรฉed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat sauce for extra flavor.
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Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for busy weeknights.
๐ฅถ Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
๐ง Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~550
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Protein: 35g
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Fat: 28g
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Carbs: 45g
๐ Ingredient Substitutions
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Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
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Swap marinara for homemade tomato sauce or pasta sauce of choice.
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Use dairy-free cream cheese for lactose intolerance.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to Serve With
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Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks ๐ฅ
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Fresh green salad with vinaigrette ๐ฅ
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Steamed or roasted vegetables ๐ฅฆ
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Why Everyone Loves This
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Comforting and filling family favorite.
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Creamy texture and cheesy topping.
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Easy to make in advance and feed a crowd.
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Kids and adults alike love this dish.
๐ Variations to Try
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Add spicy Italian sausage for a flavor kick.
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Mix in chopped spinach or kale for a veggie boost.
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Top with breadcrumbs mixed with butter for a crunchy crust.
โค๏ธ Reader Rave
โThis baked spaghetti casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and so flavorfulโmy family canโt get enough!โ โ ๐ฌLindsay M.
๐ Final Thoughts
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a luscious, cheesy casserole that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal. Itโs perfect for cozy nights and makes wonderful leftovers.
๐ฌ Share Your Version!
Try this recipe and tag your photos with #ZacRecipes and #CreamCheeseSpaghetti โ we love seeing your delicious twists!
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๐ Conclusion
If you want a comforting, cheesy baked pasta thatโs creamy and rich with savory beef, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is your go-to recipe. Easy to make, family-approved, and absolutely delicious every time.