Step-by-step instructions
Ready to dive in? Here’s how to prepare this delectable casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling water until tender, then drain it well.
- Meanwhile, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain the excess fat and stir in the spaghetti sauce.
- In a large bowl, combine the hot spaghetti with cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt, mixing until the pasta is fully coated.
- Spread a little of the meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Layer the cheesy spaghetti over it, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
- Top everything off with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until everything is bubbly and golden on top.
Best ways to enjoy it
There are so many creative ways to serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole! For a cozy meal, serve it straight from the oven with a fresh side salad topped with a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread is always a welcome addition, perfect for soaking up extra sauce. And for the veggie lovers, consider a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to brighten up the plate.
Storage and reheating tips
Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, this casserole will keep for about 3 to 4 days. If you’d like to freeze it, ensure it’s sealed well; it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply cover with foil and pop it in the oven again at 350°F until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some pro tips to elevate your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this allows for easier mixing without clumps.
- Experiment with spices and cheeses: add red pepper flakes for a kick or swap mozzarella for a different melty cheese.
- For added nutrition, throw in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the meat sauce.
Creative twists
Feel free to personalize this dish! Try swapping out the lean ground beef for turkey or even a meat substitute for a lighter, vegetarian version. You could also add different cheeses, like cheddar or pepper jack, for unique flavors. Not a fan of spaghetti? Use penne or rigatoni instead—just ensure the cooking times are adjusted accordingly.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole?
Preparation, cook time, and baking together take around 45-50 minutes from start to finish, making it a relatively quick dinner option.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for a day or two before baking. Just be sure to add a few minutes extra to the baking time if it’s coming directly from the fridge.
Is it safe to freeze this casserole after baking?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking it to heat through.
Embrace the cozy essence of home cooking with this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole—it’s a dish full of flavor that your family will cherish!
