Baked Spaghetti Cream Cheese Dream
This baked spaghetti casserole is a creamy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dish that's surprisingly simple to make. The addition of cream cheese adds a richness and tanginess that elevates it beyond ordinary spaghetti casseroles. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large bowl
- Hand mixer or whisk
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Cooking spray or butter
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- Water, for boiling
- Salt, for seasoning the water
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain the spaghetti well in a colander. Do not rinse.
- While the spaghetti is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the marinara sauce, heavy cream, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the cream cheese. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Pour the sauce over the drained spaghetti and toss to coat evenly.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Do not overcook the spaghetti, as it will become mushy in the casserole. Use a high-quality marinara sauce for optimal flavor. The casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator; add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave. Consider adding cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or sauteed vegetables to the sauce for variations.