Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the comforting textures of pasta with the creamy richness of cream cheese and gooey melted cheese. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, as it effortlessly blends the familiar with a twist! We all cherish meals that evoke warmth and nostalgia, and this recipe is just that—a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal that’s bound to delight everyone around the dinner table. This step-by-step guide will show you how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti stands out for its simplicity and the comfort it delivers. You’ll find it’s incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients, ensuring you have more quality time with your loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen. The recipe combines the creamy texture of cream cheese and marinara sauce that wraps around the spaghetti like a cozy hug, making it a delightful family-favorite! Plus, it bakes quickly, transforming into a bubbly and golden dish that looks as good as it tastes. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in with your family.

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to create your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti:

8 oz spaghetti: Cooked to al dente perfection, spaghetti provides a delightful toothsome texture.
8 oz cream cheese (softened): This creamy cheese adds a luxurious richness to the dish.
1 cup marinara sauce: The tomato-based sauce brings a tangy sweetness that intermingles beautifully with the creaminess.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty, gooey mozzarella adds a layer of gooey goodness on top.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan creates an elevated flavor profile with its nutty notes.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: This aromatic ingredient infuses the dish with a warm, savory aroma.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that helps to elevate all the flavors within the recipe.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance flavor.
Fresh basil, for garnish: Adding a touch of freshness right before serving!

These ingredients combine to create a dish that is creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it an instant favorite for everyone who tries it.

Step-by-Step Directions

Making Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is straightforward, and with this detailed guide, you’ll be cooking like a pro in no time!

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish will start cooking evenly right from the jump.
Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, take the softened cream cheese and combine it with the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
Combine with Spaghetti: Add the drained spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and stir until all the strands are well coated. You want each piece of spaghetti enveloped in that creamy goodness!
Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and then transfer the spaghetti mixture into the dish. Spread it evenly throughout the dish to ensure even cooking.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of your spaghetti mixture. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust when baked!
Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and turns a golden hue.
Cool and Garnish: Once out of the oven, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving to add an inviting touch of color and freshness.

Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti that not only looks stunning but tastes divine!

Tips & Tricks

Herb Variations: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or oregano along with the basil for a more complex flavor profile.
Add Protein: Incorporating cooked chicken or ground beef can make the dish heartier and add protein, appealing to a wider audience.
Vegetable Boost: Sneak in some spinach or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or gouda if you want to change things up.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish ahead of time; just assemble the ingredients and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is versatile and pairs well with various side dishes to create a balanced meal. Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or offer some garlic bread or a crusty baguette for those who love to indulge in a buttery side. The dish is also perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or movie nights, providing a hearty and satisfying meal for everyone.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti typically contains around 400-500 calories, depending on portion size and any additional ingredients used. It offers a good balance of carbohydrates from the spaghetti, as well as protein and fat from the cheese, but keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake. Balancing this dish with vegetables or a salad can help create a more nutrient-dense meal.

Storing Tips & Variations

If you have leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or heat them in the oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the assembled dish before baking; simply cover it tightly and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake according to the instructions. Variations could include swapping out the marinara for a creamy Alfredo sauce or adding your favorite vegetables.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a dish that’s meant to be shared, enjoyed, and savored. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone who simply loves delicious food, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and experience the comforting, creamy goodness that has everyone raving. Share your thoughts and let us know how your creation turned out!

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free spaghetti, and you’ll achieve similar delicious results.
Can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian as is, but you can enhance it further by adding vegetables to the mixture before baking.
How long does it take to prepare?
The preparation time is roughly 15 minutes, and baking takes about 25-30 minutes, so overall, you’ll have this meal ready in under an hour!
What can I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?
Pair this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
How do I reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option. Enjoy your creamy deliciousness!