Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: Prepare to be amazed! This isn’t your average weeknight dinner; it’s a creamy, dreamy, cheesy explosion of flavor that will have everyone begging for seconds. Forget dry, boring pasta bakes – we’re talking about a dish so rich and satisfying, it’s practically a hug in a casserole dish.

While the exact origins of Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole are shrouded in mystery (likely born from a desire to elevate simple spaghetti night!), its comforting nature resonates with generations. Casseroles, in general, have long been a staple of American home cooking, offering a convenient and budget-friendly way to feed a crowd. This particular variation, with its velvety cream cheese sauce, takes that comforting tradition to a whole new level.

What makes this casserole so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the tender spaghetti, the smooth and tangy cream cheese sauce, and the optional crispy topping (breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers!). The flavor is undeniably addictive, a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet that appeals to both kids and adults. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a versatile dish you can adapt to your family’s preferences. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (24 ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 (4 ounce) can sliced mushrooms, drained
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparing the Meat Sauce:

1. First, let’s get started on the heart of our casserole – the meat sauce! In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon until it’s crumbled nicely.
2. Once the ground beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole!
3. Now, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook them along with the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. This step really builds the flavor of the sauce.
4. Stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed. The aroma should be amazing at this point!
5. Pour in the jar of spaghetti sauce and add the drained sliced mushrooms. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer and more flavorful the sauce will become. You can even let it simmer for up to an hour if you have the time!

Cooking the Spaghetti:

1. While the meat sauce is simmering, let’s cook the spaghetti. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a rolling boil. Adding salt to the water seasons the pasta as it cooks.
2. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until it’s al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian, so the pasta should be firm but cooked through.
3. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it well in a colander. Make sure to get rid of as much water as possible.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Mixture:

1. Now for the creamy, dreamy part! In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and milk.
2. Using an electric mixer (or a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease!), beat the ingredients together until they are smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
3. Add the cooked and drained spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture. Toss gently to coat the spaghetti evenly with the creamy goodness. This step is crucial for that signature cream cheese flavor in every bite.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly.
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make it easier to serve.
3. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Pour half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti layer. Try to distribute it evenly so every part of the casserole gets a good dose of meaty flavor.
5. Sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat sauce. This layer of cheese will melt beautifully and add a gooey, cheesy element to the casserole.
6. Repeat the layers: Spread the remaining spaghetti mixture over the cheese, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
7. Finally, sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. This final layer of cheese will create a golden-brown, bubbly crust that’s irresistible.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the casserole moist and prevent the cheese from burning.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning.
4. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions:

This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take it to the next level:

• Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a perfect complement to the rich casserole.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into the sauce.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or sprinkle some on top of the casserole before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips and Tricks:

• Don’t overcook the spaghetti. Al dente is the way to go! Overcooked spaghetti will become mushy in the casserole.
• Use good quality spaghetti sauce. The flavor of the sauce will greatly impact the overall taste of the casserole.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients. Add different vegetables to the meat sauce, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots. You can also use different types of cheese, such as provolone or Monterey Jack.
• Make it ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
• Freeze it for later. This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Variations:

• Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed lentils or black beans for added protein.
• Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with cooked and shredded chicken.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or sprinkle some on top of the casserole before baking. You can also use a spicy spaghetti sauce.
• Deluxe: Add a layer of ricotta cheese between the spaghetti and meat sauce layers.

Conclusion:

This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that’s incredibly easy to put together. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish to bring to a potluck. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly coats the spaghetti, and the added meat (or meat substitute!) provides a hearty and delicious element that will have everyone coming back for seconds. What makes this casserole so special is its versatility. While I’ve shared my go-to recipe, feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage. If you’re a vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. You could even try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses, to create a unique flavor profile. Serving suggestions are endless! A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also a fantastic addition for soaking up all that delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. And don’t forget the parmesan cheese! A generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top adds a salty, savory finish that elevates the dish to another level. This Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is truly a winner. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious, making it the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The creamy texture and rich flavor are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the versatility of the recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, making it a dish that you can truly call your own. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of a truly comforting and satisfying meal. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And now, for the most important part: I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve made this Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, please share your thoughts, variations, and photos in the comments below. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you make any substitutions? What did your family and friends think? Your feedback is invaluable, and I can’t wait to see what delicious creations you come up with. Happy cooking! I am sure this will become a family favorite. Print