Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

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If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, soul-satisfying pasta bake, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti will absolutely hit the spot. Imagine perfectly cooked spaghetti noodles tossed in a rich cream cheese sauce, layered with flavorful meat sauce, and topped with golden, bubbling mozzarella. It’s everything you love about a baked pasta dish but with an irresistibly creamy twist.

Whether you’re making dinner for the family or prepping for a cozy get-together, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple enough for weeknights, but indulgent enough to feel like a special treat. One bite of that creamy, cheesy top layer and you’ll be making this on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

This isn’t your ordinary spaghetti bake. The addition of cream cheese creates an ultra-smooth, rich texture that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. Combined with a seasoned meat sauce and a generous layer of melted cheese on top, this dish offers bold flavor in every bite. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.

What Kind of Spaghetti Should I Use?

Classic spaghetti noodles work best for this dish because they hold the cream cheese sauce well and bake beautifully. However, if you’re looking to switch things up, feel free to try it with angel hair for a lighter feel or linguine for a thicker bite. Whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti are also great alternatives if you’re looking for healthier options without sacrificing texture or flavor.

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Ingredients for the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Every ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in bringing out its creamy, comforting essence:

• Spaghetti: The base of the dish, providing a satisfying bite and perfect vessel for all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Cream Cheese: The secret ingredient that creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the pasta like a dream.
• Ground Beef: Adds a savory, meaty flavor that balances out the creaminess with a hearty texture.
• Marinara Sauce: Brings acidity and depth to the dish, complementing the richness of the cheese.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection on top, giving that golden, bubbly finish we all crave.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty note that enhances the overall flavor.
• Garlic and Onion: Aromatics that provide the foundation of flavor in the meat sauce.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, adding depth and richness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning each layer to perfection.

How To Make the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese with a bit of pasta water to create a smooth sauce. Toss the drained spaghetti in the cream cheese until every strand is coated.

Step 3: Cook the Meat Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Pour in marinara sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

In a greased baking dish, spread the cream cheese-coated spaghetti evenly. Pour the meat sauce over the top. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheeses generously over the entire dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the spaghetti uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

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How to Serve and Store Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. Serve it straight from the oven while it’s hot and bubbly, with that irresistible cheesy crust intact. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish also freezes well — just wrap it tightly and store for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?

Garlic Bread

Nothing pairs better with pasta than golden, buttery garlic bread. Use it to mop up any leftover sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the spaghetti bake.

Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli add a healthy and colorful side.

Caprese Salad

Sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a fresh and elegant side.

Sauteed Spinach

Quickly sauteed spinach with garlic gives a nutrient-packed green side that balances the meal.

Bruschetta

Toasted baguette topped with fresh tomato and basil adds a nice crunchy and tangy bite.

Antipasto Platter

Serve up some olives, artichokes, cured meats, and cheese for a delicious pre-dinner nibble.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake until bubbly.

What kind of cream cheese should I use?

Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest results. However, you can also use reduced-fat if you’re looking to lighten it up slightly. Just make sure it’s softened before mixing with the pasta.

Can I use a different meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage make excellent substitutes for ground beef. Each will bring a unique flavor to the dish.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Definitely! Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.

How do I prevent the cheese from over-browning?

If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the top with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to keep it perfectly melted without burning.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the meat? Did you add veggies?
I love seeing your creative spins on classic recipes. Got a question or tip? Drop it below and let’s share the love for cheesy pasta bakes.

Check out more easy dinner ideas and family favorites on my Pinterest: Life With Livia Recipes

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food. It brings together creamy, cheesy indulgence with the bold flavors of a hearty meat sauce, all baked into one satisfying dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, it delivers both flavor and convenience. Give it a try, and this may just become your new favorite pasta bake!

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