Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love affair with baked cream cheese spaghetti! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate—creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s house. We were having a cozy movie night, and as soon as I took a bite, I was hooked! The rich cream cheese blends perfectly with the marinara sauce, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti. Trust me, once you taste this, you’ll want to make it a regular staple at your dinner table!

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a comforting meal at home, baked cream cheese spaghetti is your answer. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into this cheesy goodness!

Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

• 8 ounces spaghetti – this is the star of the dish, so grab your favorite brand!
• 8 ounces cream cheese – make sure it’s softened for easy mixing; trust me, it makes a big difference!
• 2 cups marinara sauce – I love using a good quality store-bought sauce, but homemade is always a treat!
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – because who doesn’t want that gooey, melty goodness?
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – this adds a lovely salty kick that elevates the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for that aromatic flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a little herb mix to bring everything together.
• Salt to taste – don’t forget to season! It really brings out the flavors.
• Pepper to taste – just a pinch or two for that extra warmth and depth.

How to Prepare Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

1. First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your pasta bakes evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly.
2. While the oven is warming up, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water for flavor! Once it’s al dente, drain it well and set it aside. You want to make sure it’s not too soggy, so give it a little shake to remove excess water.
3. Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I like to use a hand mixer here for a super creamy texture, but a whisk works just fine too! Just mix until it’s all smooth and combined.
4. Next, add your cooked spaghetti into that delicious cream cheese mixture. Gently stir everything together until the spaghetti is fully coated. This is where the magic happens, and you’ll see all that creamy goodness enveloping the pasta.
5. Grab a baking dish—about 9×13 inches works perfectly—and transfer the spaghetti mixture into it. Spread it out evenly, making sure no noodle is left behind!
6. Now for the best part: sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top. This will create that irresistible cheesy crust we all love!
7. Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and you’ll know it’s done when the cheese is all bubbly and golden. Oh, that aroma will fill your kitchen!
8. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This little wait makes it easier to scoop out perfect portions. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Tips for Success

Now, before you dive into making this baked cream cheese spaghetti, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every single time!

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Use the best quality cream cheese and marinara sauce you can find. This dish shines with fresh, flavorful ingredients, so don’t skimp! A homemade marinara can elevate it to another level of deliciousness if you’re up for it!
• Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Make sure to cook the spaghetti just until it’s al dente. It will continue to cook while baking, and we don’t want mushy pasta here! A little bite in the pasta makes for a perfect texture.
• Mix Thoroughly: When combining the cream cheese mixture with the spaghetti, take your time to stir gently but thoroughly. You want every single noodle coated in that luscious sauce. No one wants a clump of plain spaghetti!
• Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, feel free to mix in some cheddar or fontina for a different flavor profile. Cheese lovers, rejoice!
• Let it Rest: After baking, giving the dish a few minutes to cool will help the layers set a bit. It also makes it easier to serve! It’s tempting to dig in right away, but patience is a virtue in this case.
• Customize It! If you want to kick things up a notch, toss in some cooked veggies or cooked ground meat for added flavor and texture. Spinach, mushrooms, or even a bit of sausage can really transform the dish!

By keeping these tips in mind, you’re on your way to making a baked cream cheese spaghetti that’ll impress anyone lucky enough to share a plate with you. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to taste as you go—you’re going to love it!

Variations of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Oh, the possibilities with baked cream cheese spaghetti are endless! I absolutely love how versatile this dish can be, and it’s so much fun to experiment with different flavors. Here are some of my favorite variations to get those creative juices flowing!

• Veggie Delight: Add in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a burst of color and nutrition. Just make sure to cook them a bit beforehand to release some moisture!
• Meat Lover’s Dream: For those who love a heartier meal, try adding cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken into the mix. It adds protein and makes it super filling!
• Cheese Explosion: If you can’t get enough cheese (and who can?), mix it up by incorporating different cheeses like gouda or feta. You can even top it with crumbled blue cheese for a tangy twist!
• Spicy Kick: Want to heat things up? Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture. It’ll bring a whole new level of flavor and warmth!
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can make a world of difference in this dish. Try mixing in some chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, vibrant taste that brightens everything up.
• Pesto Magic: Swap out some of the marinara sauce for pesto for a delightful Italian twist. It’s rich, herby, and truly transforms the dish into something special.

These variations allow you to tailor baked cream cheese spaghetti to your liking, so feel free to mix and match! The best part about cooking is making it your own, and I can’t wait for you to try these ideas. Enjoy creating your perfect version!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious baked cream cheese spaghetti, let’s talk about the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal experience! I love to serve this dish with a few complementary sides that really round out the flavors and make for a well-balanced dinner.

• Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, crusty garlic bread on the side. The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs perfectly with the creamy spaghetti, and it’s great for scooping up any extra sauce!
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad adds a nice contrast to the richness of the pasta. I like to toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the creaminess beautifully!
• Roasted Vegetables: You can’t go wrong with some roasted veggies on the side. Think carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, drizzled with olive oil and roasted until caramelized. They add a lovely depth of flavor and a pop of color to your plate!
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus or green beans bring a nice crunch and a fresh taste to the table. A sprinkle of lemon juice over the top can brighten everything up!
• Antipasto Platter: For a fun twist, serve an antipasto platter with cured meats, olives, and cheeses. It’s a great way to start the meal and gets everyone excited about the main dish!

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your baked cream cheese spaghetti but also create a delightful dining experience that you and your loved ones won’t forget. So go ahead, set the table, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to properly store those delicious leftovers! Trust me, you’re going to want to save every last bite of this baked cream cheese spaghetti because it’s just as good the next day (if not better!).

To store your leftovers, let the dish cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I usually cover it with some plastic wrap or a lid to keep it nice and fresh. Just make sure it’s sealed well to avoid any fridge odors sneaking in!

Now, when it comes to reheating, I highly recommend using the oven to maintain that glorious cheesy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the spaghetti in an oven-safe dish. If it seems a bit dry, feel free to drizzle a splash of marinara sauce or a little cream over the top before covering it with foil. This helps keep everything moist and prevents it from drying out while it warms up.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s heated through and the cheese is bubbling again. Oh, that smell will take you right back to the first bite! If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just pop it in for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. But be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with rubbery cheese!

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your baked cream cheese spaghetti even after the first delicious serving. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying baked cream cheese spaghetti, it’s nice to have an idea of what you’re indulging in! Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional values you can expect per serving (about 1 cup). Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose, but this should give you a good ballpark figure:

• Calories: 400
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 15g

With this dish, you get a delightful mix of creamy goodness and hearty carbs, making it a satisfying meal. Just remember, it’s all about balance, so enjoy every cheesy bite of your baked cream cheese spaghetti while keeping an eye on your overall meal plan!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is the classic choice, feel free to swap it out for penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different shapes might take a bit longer or shorter to cook!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the baked cream cheese spaghetti up to a day in advance. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it well, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before putting it in the oven for even cooking.

What can I add to make it more filling?
If you’re looking to bulk it up, consider adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a heartier meal. You can also toss in some sautéed veggies like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor!

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze baked cream cheese spaghetti! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.

What should I serve with baked cream cheese spaghetti?
This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. You can’t go wrong with a warm slice of garlic bread for dipping into that cheesy goodness!

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: 7 Layers of Cheesy Love

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Baked cream cheese spaghetti is a creamy and cheesy pasta dish baked to perfection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Serve with garlic bread.
• Can add cooked vegetables or meat for extra flavor.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: baked cream cheese spaghetti