Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 2 cups marinara or your favorite tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a dish that wraps comfort, creaminess, and cheesy goodness into one irresistible package, then you are in for a real treat with this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out, combining tender spaghetti noodles with a luscious cream cheese sauce and a melty, golden cheesy crust that’s absolutely mouthwatering. This casserole is not just dinner — it’s a celebration of cozy flavors that will quickly become your go-to when you want something simple yet show-stopping. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make this delightful dish a signature in your kitchen!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on any amazing recipe means gathering the essentials, and this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven is no exception. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the layers of flavor and texture—from the creamy base to the irresistible cheesy topping.

12 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta foundation that holds the creamy sauce beautifully without getting mushy.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds rich, velvety creaminess that makes this casserole stand out.
2 cups marinara or your favorite tomato sauce: Brings a tangy, comforting tomato flavor that balances the richness.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for that gooey, stretchy texture everyone loves.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp, bold flavor and vibrant color on top.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a salty, nutty complexity that elevates the whole dish.
1/2 cup sour cream (optional): For extra silkiness and tanginess, enhancing creaminess even more.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Imparts a subtle savory depth that complements the cheeses perfectly.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds aromatic warmth and brightness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but essential, these seasonings balance all the flavors.
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens and freshens up the finale with color and herbal notes.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

The foundation of our Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven starts with spaghetti cooked just right—al dente. Boil it according to package instructions so it’s tender but still has a bit of bite. Drain the pasta well to avoid a watery casserole later, and set it aside while you prepare the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce

Next, combine the softened cream cheese and marinara sauce in a large bowl. The cream cheese should be room temperature for effortless blending, making a silky, luscious base. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to infuse savory warmth. If you want to kick the creaminess up another notch, stirring in sour cream here is a total game changer, making every forkful decadently smooth.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now it’s time to unite the ingredients. Pour the cooked spaghetti into the bowl with your creamy tomato mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, making sure every single strand is luxuriously coated. This is the stage where the magic of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven truly starts to shine.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, a perfect temperature to get that top layer melted and bubbly without drying out the pasta beneath. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep our creamy creation from sticking. Transfer the spaghetti mixture, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking. Then, sprinkle on the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses evenly—the trio that creates that coveted golden crust and rich flavor layering.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your casserole into the oven for 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, the cheeses melt into glorious pools, bubbling and browning just right to create that irresistible crust. The smell alone will have everyone eagerly waiting to dive in. Keep an eye on it towards the end to achieve that perfect golden brown finish without burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes—the flavors get happier, and it firms up slightly for easy serving. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a splash of color and a fresh, herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and tomato sauce. And just like that, your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven is ready to dazzle!

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven

Garnishes

Garnishing is not just about looks—it elevates the whole dining experience. Fresh basil or parsley isn’t just pretty; it adds a bright, crisp herbal freshness that cuts through the richness. Sprinkle chopped herbs right before serving for a lovely color pop and flavor boost.

Side Dishes

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without overpowering. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread can round out the meal perfectly. These sides add freshness and textural contrast, balancing the creamy, cheesy main event.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist on presentation, try serving individual portions scooped into small ramekins or mini cast iron skillets—everyone gets their own personal Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven! You can also add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven is a joy to have! Simply cover tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delightful as the first.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. Place portions or the whole dish in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for comfort on demand.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered with foil to retain moisture, until warmed through—usually around 15 to 20 minutes. You can also reheat a single portion in the microwave, but the oven keeps that baked cheese topping nice and tasty.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic here, penne, rotini, or rigatoni work wonderfully too because their shapes hold sauce well and can add a fun twist to the texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian if you use a vegetarian marinara sauce and cheeses. For a vegan version, you’d need to substitute cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese with plant-based alternatives, which can still deliver great flavor and creaminess.

Can I add protein to this casserole?

Definitely! Adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken can make this casserole heartier. Just fold your cooked protein into the pasta and sauce before baking for a delicious upgrade.

What if I don’t have sour cream on hand?

No worries! The sour cream is optional and only adds extra creaminess. If you don’t have it, the casserole will still be rich and flavorful thanks to the cream cheese and cheeses.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too watery?

Make sure to drain your spaghetti well and avoid adding extra liquid beyond the sauce. Also, a quick bake uncovered helps evaporate some moisture, resulting in a nicely set casserole.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong making this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven. It’s warm, welcoming, and packed with flavors that feel like a big, cozy kitchen hug. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this dish brings everyone together with its creamy, cheesy goodness that tastes like love in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a treasured staple in your recipe box for all those days you want comfort food with a bit of flair. Go ahead, give it a try—you’re in for a real treat!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Heaven Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 21 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and comforting baked spaghetti casserole featuring a rich cream cheese tomato sauce, layered with mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners and serves as a hearty, cheesy pasta bake everyone will love.

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prevent it from becoming mushy in the casserole.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in sour cream if using for an extra rich and creamy texture.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure every noodle is fully coated with the creamy tomato sauce.
Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then transfer the spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses over the top to create a delicious crust.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, signaling it’s ready to be served.
Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add a burst of fresh flavor and a lovely color contrast.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free spaghetti and ensure the marinara sauce does not contain gluten.
Adding sour cream is optional but enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
You can use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more robust garlic flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Feel free to add cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course, Casserole, Pasta
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American