Description
This Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. With its rich layers of tender spaghetti, creamy cheese, and savory meat sauce, every bite melts in your mouth. The combination of marinara, cream cheese, and mozzarella creates an irresistible cheesy blend that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or a hearty dish to impress guests, this baked spaghetti is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz spaghetti
1 tbsp olive oil
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, then toss with olive oil, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread half the meat sauce in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Add the spaghetti mixture, then pour the remaining meat sauce over the top. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Spaghetti: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner