Step-by-step baked spaghetti recipe with cream cheese

Nothing says “home-cooked comfort” like a cheesy baked pasta dish fresh out of the oven. If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with minimal effort and maximum flavor, this baked spaghetti recipe with cream cheese is about to become your new go-to. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a dish to wow your guests, or simply a way to satisfy your craving for creamy, cheesy goodness, this recipe is everything you need and more.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process that will leave you and your loved ones wanting seconds (and thirds!).

Why This Baked Spaghetti Recipe Will Be Your Favorite

Before we get to the nitty-gritty details, let’s talk about why this dish is worth your time and why it’s bound to become a household favorite.

1. It’s a crowd-pleaser: Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, it ticks all the boxes.
2. Perfect for busy days: With simple steps and ingredients, you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.
3. Customizable: Add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust the spices—this recipe is as flexible as you need it to be.
4. Meal prep magic: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or prepping ahead.

So, whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting a dinner party, this baked spaghetti dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To get started, here’s a list of ingredients that come together to create magic in a baking dish.

Main Ingredients:

• Spaghetti: 16 oz, cooked al dente. This ensures it doesn’t turn mushy during baking.
• Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened to make it easy to spread.
• Ground Beef or Sausage: 1 lb, or your preferred protein alternative.
• Marinara Sauce: 24 oz jar of your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded for that melty, golden top.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated for added cheesy depth.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for the perfect flavor balance.

Optional Add-ins:

• Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to add a veggie boost.
• Red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

This baked spaghetti recipe is simple to make, even if you’re not a seasoned chef. Follow these steps to create a dish so delicious, you’ll want to add it to your weekly rotation.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything you need. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

1. Cook spaghetti : Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Brown the protein: In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until fully browned.Drain any excess fat and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a bowl , mix the softened cream cheese with a Italian seasonin and pinch of garlic powder. Mix until smooth and creamy. This layer adds a rich, velvety texture that sets this recipe apart.

3. Layer the Dish

1. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly in the baking dish.
2. Dollop and gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
3. Add a layer of the cooked ground beef or sausage, followed by a generous layer of marinara sauce.
4. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining marinara sauce.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top for that irresistible golden crust.

4. Bake It to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes , Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and turn golden brown.

Pro Tips and Variations

1. Prevent Soggy Pasta
Cook spaghetti until just al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.

2. Blend the Sauce for Extra Smoothness
For an ultra-creamy consistency, blend the marinara sauce with cream cheese before layering. This helps evenly distribute the flavors.

3. Enhance the Cheese Flavor
Mix different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda with mozzarella for a richer taste. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top adds extra depth.

4. Boost the Seasoning
Cream cheese can mellow out flavors, so don’t be afraid to add extra garlic, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to balance the taste.

5. Add a Crunchy Topping
For a crispy crust, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese on top before baking.

6. Make It a One-Pan Dish
Instead of layering, mix everything together in the baking dish for a casserole-style meal with less prep.

7. Spice It Up
Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce for a kick of heat.

8. Make It Vegetarian
Swap ground meat for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.

Would you like any additional variations or tips tailored to specific dietary needs?

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your baked spaghetti with the right sides, beverages, and desserts can turn it into a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Side Dishes

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks – Buttery, toasted garlic bread or soft breadsticks are perfect for scooping up the creamy, cheesy spaghetti sauce. For extra flavor, sprinkle with Parmesan and Italian herbs before toasting.

Fresh Green Salad with a Light Vinaigrette – A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the baked spaghetti. Try mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, dressed with balsamic or lemon vinaigrette.

Roasted Vegetables – Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant with olive oil and seasoning adds a savory, slightly caramelized contrast to the dish.

Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a simple, nutritious side without overpowering the flavors of the main dish. Drizzle with a little lemon juice or sprinkle with Parmesan for extra zest.

Antipasto Platter – A combination of olives, marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, and cured meats like salami or prosciutto makes for a flavorful Italian-inspired appetizer or side dish.

Beverage Pairings

Red Wine – A medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti, complements the acidity of the marinara sauce and enhances the overall depth of flavors.

Lemonade or Iced Tea – For a refreshing, non-alcoholic option, pair your meal with homemade lemonade or classic iced tea. These drinks help cleanse the palate between bites.

Milk – A glass of milk provides a creamy, neutral balance, making it a great option, especially for kids enjoying the meal.

Dessert Ideas

Tiramisu – A classic Italian dessert with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream, tiramisu offers a light yet indulgent finish to your meal.

Chocolate Chip Cookies – A warm, freshly baked chocolate chip cookie adds a simple, nostalgic sweet touch to round out dinner. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Berry Parfait – For a lighter, refreshing dessert, layer fresh berries with Greek yogurt or whipped cream and a sprinkle of granola. The natural sweetness of berries contrasts beautifully with the richness of the pasta dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Storage & Leftover Tips

Baked spaghetti with cream cheese stores beautifully, making it a perfect meal for leftovers! Follow these tips to keep it fresh and delicious:

• Refrigeration:
• Allow the baked spaghetti to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing:
• For longer storage, freeze individual portions or the entire dish.
• Wrap tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
• Store for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating Instructions:
• Oven (Best Method): Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or sauce to prevent drying.

Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, bake covered at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Step-by-step baked spaghetti recipe with cream cheese

Try this creamy baked spaghetti recipe with cream cheese for a comforting, cheesy twist on a classic dish. Easy to make and perfect for family

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

• Spaghetti: 16 oz cooked al dente
• Cream Cheese: 8 oz softened
• Ground Beef or Sausage: 1 lb or preferred protein alternative
• Marinara Sauce: 24 oz store-bought or homemade
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup grated
• Seasonings: Garlic powder onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper (to taste)
• Optional Add-ins: Diced bell peppers mushrooms, or spinach (for extra veggies)

Notes

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 900mg

Conclusion

This baked spaghetti recipe with cream cheese isn’t just a meal—it’s a moment of joy in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a dish to impress, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its creamy layers, gooey cheese, and robust flavors, it’s the perfect dish to bring people together.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and create something unforgettable tonight.

Try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. Love this dish? Share it with your friends and family to spread the cheesy goodness!