If you are looking for a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious pasta dish to add to your rotation, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute winner. It combines the silky richness of cream cheese with gooey mozzarella and tangy Parmesan, baked to golden bubbly perfection. The result is a cozy casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests without any fuss. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to baked pasta favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe plays a vital role in balancing flavor, texture, and that irresistible creamy consistency. The list is simple, but each component brings something special that will make your dish shine.
- 8 oz spaghetti: The classic pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully, but feel free to swap for your favorite shape.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient that makes the sauce luxuriously rich and smooth.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds a creamy, light base that blends the cheese and pasta perfectly.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives subtle savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a mild sweetness.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and mild spice.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides stretchy, melty goodness that you’ll love.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers sharp, nutty accents that elevate the creamy sauce.
- Optional add-ins: Cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken for heartier meals; sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms for freshness; or red pepper flakes if you want a spicy kick.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the spaghetti until just al dente is crucial because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the creamy sauce.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce
In a sizeable mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and milk until smooth and silky. The cream cheese forms a thick base, while the milk lightens it just enough. Then, stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to infuse the sauce with layers of comforting flavor that effortlessly complement the cheesy richness.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently toss the cooked spaghetti with your cream cheese mixture, making sure every strand is luxuriously coated. Next, mix in half of the shredded mozzarella and a quarter cup of Parmesan cheese. These cheeses melt into the sauce beautifully, adding body and a luscious gooey texture that makes this baked casserole irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks. Transfer your creamy pasta mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Now sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top to create that golden, bubbly crust that’s the hallmark of any great baked pasta dish.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the dish for 20-25 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbling and turning a gorgeous golden brown. For an extra touch of crispiness, you can broil it for 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye to make sure it doesn’t burn. This final step transforms the dish into a perfect harmony of creamy, chewy, and crisp textures.
Step 6: Serve
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to settle. This makes it easier to serve and helps all those cheesy flavors meld together even more. Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or even a dash of red pepper flakes for that lovely pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, herbal brightness that contrasts perfectly with the creamy richness. You can also top with extra Parmesan for sharpness or a few red pepper flakes to give a subtle spicy kick that livens up every bite.
Side Dishes
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Light, fresh sides help balance the baked pasta’s decadent qualities, making the meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or family gatherings, try serving this dish in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. You could also layer it in a deep dish with vegetables or protein to turn it into an elaborate layered casserole. Either way, it looks irresistible and tastes even better.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, simply cover any leftover baked cream cheese spaghetti tightly and refrigerate. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want a quick reheated dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, this recipe freezes beautifully. Just cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll always have a delicious homemade meal ready to go.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can cover with foil to prevent the top from burning. Microwave reheating works too if you’re short on time, but the oven keeps the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or fusilli. Just ensure they’re cooked al dente before mixing with the sauce to maintain the perfect texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Skip any meat add-ins and load up on sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of veggies and adds satisfying richness on its own.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe reheats well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping your lunches or dinners. Just store portions in airtight containers and follow the reheating instructions for best results.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese or milk?
You can substitute with lower-fat versions, but keep in mind that the dish will be slightly less rich and creamy. Whole milk and full-fat cream cheese provide that signature indulgent texture and flavor.
How spicy is this recipe?
The base recipe is mild and creamy, perfect for all palates. If you love a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce on top is a great way to customize the spice level to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and endlessly comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this creamy baked pasta will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. So don’t hesitate—grab those simple ingredients and create a dish that’s nothing short of delicious magic on a plate.
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pasta Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a comforting and creamy pasta casserole perfect for a family dinner. This dish features spaghetti coated in a rich cream cheese and milk sauce, flavored with garlic and onion powders, then topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese before baking to golden perfection. Optional add-ins like cooked ground meat or sautéed vegetables make it versatile and customizable.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta shape)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 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 (amount as desired)
- Sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers (amount as desired)
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick (to taste)
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 well and set aside.
- 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 black pepper to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti into the cream cheese mixture and toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly. Mix in ½ cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup grated Parmesan until the cheeses melt into the sauce. Incorporate optional add-ins now if using.
- Assemble the Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Transfer the creamy pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly. For an extra golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan cheese if desired to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer, creamier sauce; substitute with 2% or plant-based milk if preferred.
- Feel free to customize the casserole by adding cooked ground meat or your favorite sautéed vegetables.
- Do not overcook the pasta; cooking to al dente prevents mushy casserole texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit meat add-ins and add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein.
