Cream Cheese in Baked Spaghetti for Ultimate Comfort

Discover how cream cheese in baked spaghetti transforms a classic pasta bake into a rich, velvety comfort meal that’s simple to make .

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Course Comfort Food, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 Servings

Calories 520 kcal

12 ounces of spaghetti cooked until just firm following package directions
8 ounces block-style cream cheese softened at room temperature for smoother blending
1 pound lean ground beef or turkey for a hearty protein layer
24 ounces of jarred marinara sauce from your preferred brand
1 small yellow onion minced to add depth of flavor
2 cloves of garlic finely minced to release maximum aroma
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning a blend of oregano,basil
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Optional: ½ cup sour cream for extra tang and silkiness

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until just al dente (1–2 minutes under package time). Drain and set aside.

In a skillet, sauté diced onion in a little oil until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning, then pour in marinara sauce. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

In a bowl, whisk softened cream cheese (and sour cream if using) until smooth. Toss in the hot, drained spaghetti until every strand is coated.

Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Spread half the creamy spaghetti on the bottom. Layer with all of the meat sauce, then add the remaining spaghetti.

Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.