Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a creamy and cheesy spin on traditional spaghetti. The creamy cream cheese sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor that coats the pasta beautifully, while the mozzarella and Parmesan topping gives it a golden, bubbly finish. It’s an easy one-pan wonder, customizable with your favorite proteins or vegetables, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

8 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta shape)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup milk (whole milk for extra richness)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping

Optional Add-Ins:

Cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken
Sautéed vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.)
Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese and milk until smooth and creamy.
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
Stir in ½ cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for an extra golden crust (watch closely to avoid burning).

Step 6: Serve

Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Meaty Twist: Add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken for added protein.
Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for added freshness.

Tips for Success

Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook it al dente—it will soften slightly in the oven.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Romantic Touch: Plate individual servings with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or edible flowers for elegance.
Brunch Staple: Serve alongside garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a light breakfast treat.
Party Platter: Pair with roasted vegetables, dinner rolls, or a charcuterie board for variety.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is an indulgent yet simple dish that combines the richness of creamy cheese with the comforting appeal of pasta. It’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite proteins or veggies, and it’s easy to prepare for any occasion. This dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

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Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a creamy, comforting casserole that combines the richness of cream cheese with the perfect blend of spices and melted cheeses. This easy-to-make dish is a family favorite, featuring a cheesy, golden top and a flavorful, creamy sauce that coats the spaghetti beautifully. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cream Cheese Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese and milk until smooth. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss gently to coat the pasta. Stir in ½ cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese until melted.
Assemble the Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese over the top.
Bake:
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. For an extra golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).
Serve:
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Meaty Twist: Add ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken for added protein.

Veggie-Packed: Include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños for a spicy variation.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil, parsley, or thyme for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course, Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American