There’s something magical about baked spaghetti with cream cheese. Imagine a steaming dish, with gooey cheese bubbling on top and a rich aroma wafting through the kitchen. Each forkful is a delightful blend of creamy goodness, hearty pasta, and savory sauce, making every bite an experience to savor.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an event. I remember the first time I made it for my family on a chilly Sunday evening. The laughter around the table and the satisfied moans as they dug in are memories I’ll cherish forever. Perfect for cozy nights or potluck parties, this baked spaghetti will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked spaghetti with cream cheese is simple to prepare and delivers incredible flavor in every bite
- Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it visually appealing and taste like a hug on a plate
- Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients
- The leftovers (if there are any) make for an amazing lunch too!
I still chuckle when I think of how my cousin tried to eat this dish straight from the baking dish, claiming it was “more fun that way.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Spaghetti: Use about 12 ounces of your favorite spaghetti; al dente works best to hold up under the creaminess.
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Cream Cheese: A block of full-fat cream cheese adds that creamy richness; don’t skimp here!
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Marinara Sauce: Choose your preferred brand or homemade sauce for that extra touch of flavor.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: About 2 cups will create that beautiful melting layer we all crave.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it adds depth and nuttiness to each bite.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs will elevate your sauce’s flavor profile; fresh herbs work wonders too!
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.
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Optional Add-ins: Feel free to toss in cooked ground beef or veggies like spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Spaghetti: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Create Creamy Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with half a cup of marinara sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy; this is where the magic begins!
Add Spaghetti: Toss the drained spaghetti into the bowl with your creamy mixture. Mix until every strand is well-coated in cheesy goodness.
Layer It Up: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture at the bottom. Spread another half cup of marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle one cup of mozzarella cheese over this layer before repeating with remaining ingredients.
Bake Until Golden: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove foil, sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top, and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Prepare yourself for an amazing aroma filling your kitchen as you wait!
Once you take that first cheesy bite, you might just hear angels singing in approval! Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is sure to become a favorite in your home—just be ready for requests to make it again!
You Must Know
- Baked spaghetti with cream cheese transforms a classic dish into a creamy, dreamy delight
- The richness of cream cheese adds a velvety texture, while the aromas of baked pasta waft through the kitchen, making it impossible to resist
- Plus, leftovers taste even better!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your spaghetti until al dente. While that’s happening, mix cream cheese and sauce in a bowl. Finally, combine everything in a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for extra flavor. You can also add veggies such as spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through or microwave individual portions.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect baked spaghetti with cream cheese, always cook the pasta slightly underdone to avoid mushiness
- Mixing the cream cheese thoroughly helps distribute its creamy goodness evenly
- Don’t be shy about adding extra spices; they elevate the flavor profile significantly!
I remember the first time I made baked spaghetti with cream cheese for my friends. They couldn’t stop raving about how creamy and delicious it was; I felt like a culinary superhero!
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta for baked spaghetti with cream cheese?
Absolutely! Penne or rotini work well if you want some variety.
How long should I bake the spaghetti?
Bake it for about 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.
Is there a vegetarian version of baked spaghetti with cream cheese?
Yes! Just omit any meat and load up on veggies instead for a hearty dish.
Baked Spaghetti with Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Baked spaghetti with cream cheese is a comforting dish that promises creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe combines al dente pasta, rich cream cheese, and delicious marinara sauce, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, this hearty meal will leave everyone asking for more. Its warmth and flavor make it perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (divided)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Cooked ground beef or veggies (like spinach)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook spaghetti until al dente (8-10 minutes); drain.
- In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese with 1 cup of marinara sauce until smooth.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the cream cheese mixture until well-coated.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture, half of the remaining marinara sauce, and one cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top, then bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
