Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole! This dish is a warm hug in a baking dish—creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I was practically drooling before it even came out of the oven. The combination of the rich cream cheese and gooey mozzarella creates a texture that’s just irresistible. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in when you just want to indulge. Trust me, every bite feels like a celebration, and the golden crust on top? Wow, that’s just the cherry on top of this comforting dish! I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the happiness it brings!
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Gather these simple ingredients to create your creamy masterpiece:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing—trust me, it makes a world of difference! And when you’re shredding your mozzarella, go for the fresh stuff if you can; it melts like a dream! Enjoy gathering these ingredients, and get ready for a delicious cooking adventure!
How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness! Follow these straightforward steps to whip up your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole. It’s easier than you think!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is so important because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and that cheesy goodness melts just right. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Next, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Usually, that’s about 8-10 minutes. Once it’s perfectly cooked, drain it and set it aside. You want to make sure it’s ready to soak up all that creamy goodness!
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because you want that cream cheese to integrate beautifully with the sour cream for that dreamy texture!
Step 4: Combine Spaghetti and Cream Cheese Mixture
Now, add your cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold it in until every strand is coated and well-mixed. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese hiding in there—nobody wants a surprise chunk!
Step 5: Layer the Casserole
Time to start layering! Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly in your greased baking dish. Then, pour the marinara sauce over that first layer, spreading it out so every bite gets that saucy goodness. Top it off with the rest of the spaghetti mixture, smoothing it down as you go.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. It’s the crown for your casserole! Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and your kitchen smells like heaven!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t rush the cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is really softened before mixing. If it’s still cold, you’ll end up with lumps that just won’t incorporate well. Microwave it for a few seconds if you need to speed things up!
- Season to taste: Always taste your cream cheese mixture before combining it with the spaghetti. Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking!
- Watch the baking time: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. You want that cheese bubbly and slightly golden, but not burnt. If it’s browning too quickly, toss a piece of aluminum foil over the top to protect it.
- Let it rest: After baking, let your casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before digging in. This helps it set up a bit and makes serving so much easier!
- Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite ingredients! Throw in some sautéed veggies, cooked ground meat, or even some Italian seasoning for extra depth. Your casserole can be as unique as you are!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole and now you have leftovers—lucky you! Here’s how to store it properly so you can enjoy it again later:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation from forming and keeps it fresh. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for a rainy day, you can freeze the casserole! Just make sure it’s cooled down completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Now, let’s talk reheating! You want to bring back that creamy goodness:
- Oven Method: For the best results, reheat individual portions in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s warmed through. This helps keep the top nice and cheesy.
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can pop a single serving in the microwave! Just cover it with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel to prevent splatters, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through. Be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out.
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can keep your baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole as delicious as the first day you made it! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into each serving of this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole! Here’s what you can expect:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 15g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check your labels if you’re counting macros or calories. But hey, a little indulgence never hurt anyone, right? Enjoy your cheesy creation guilt-free!
FAQ About Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole is how well it holds up when prepped in advance. You can prepare the entire casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven. This helps it bake evenly! It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights or meal prepping for gatherings.
Can I use different cheeses?
Oh, you bet! This casserole is super versatile when it comes to cheese. While I absolutely adore the combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, you can mix it up based on your preferences. Feel free to swap in cheddar for a sharper flavor, or use a blend of Italian cheeses for a melty, gooey delight. Just keep in mind that the moisture content may vary, so if you choose a cheese that’s drier, you might want to add a little extra sour cream or marinara to keep things creamy!
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, yes, yes! This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole freezes beautifully. To freeze, let it cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go whenever you need a cheesy pick-me-up!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ease of Preparation: This baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready for your family or friends.
- Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cream cheese and sour cream creates a rich, velvety texture that clings to every strand of spaghetti. It’s pure comfort food!
- Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love melted cheese? The gooey mozzarella and savory Parmesan on top give this casserole a delightful golden crust that’s hard to resist.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish is fantastic for making ahead of time. You can whip it up, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to eat, making weeknight dinners a breeze!
- Customizable: Feel free to get creative! Whether you want to toss in some veggies, meat, or different cheeses, this casserole adapts beautifully to your taste preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish! It’s a surefire hit for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.
- Comfort in Every Bite: There’s something about a warm, cheesy casserole that just feels like home. Each bite is a delightful reminder of cozy nights in.
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole 2: Ultimate Comfort Dish
- Całkowity Czas: 45 minutes
- Ustępować: 6 servings 1x
- Dieta: Wegańskie
Opis
A creamy and cheesy baked spaghetti casserole topped with a golden crust.
Składniki
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instrukcje
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and mix well.
- Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the first layer.
- Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the casserole.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Uwagi
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 30 minutes
- Kategoria: Main Dish
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: Italian
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 cup
- Kalorie: 350
- Cukier: 3g
- Sód: 600mg
- Kwasy: 18g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 10g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 5g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 35g
- Włókno: 2g
- Białko: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Słowa kluczowe: baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole, spaghetti casserole, creamy spaghetti bake
