Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with its layers of tender spaghetti, creamy cheese blend, and savory marinara meat sauce. Topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish is baked to golden perfection, making it an irresistible meal for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the pasta and sauce:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the creamy cheese layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the meat sauce:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
3️⃣ Make the creamy layer:
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese (or ricotta), and half the shredded mozzarella. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4️⃣ Assemble the casserole:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Spread the cooked spaghetti evenly in the dish.
Layer the creamy cheese mixture on top of the spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
Pour the marinara meat sauce over the creamy layer. Spread it out to cover completely.
Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
5️⃣ Bake the casserole:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6️⃣ Garnish and serve:
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- This casserole is great for meal prep—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Feel free to substitute whole-grain or gluten-free spaghetti to suit your dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes