Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: A Deliciously Cheesy Twist on Classic Pasta

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of traditional spaghetti with the creamy richness of cream cheese. This recipe has its roots in the heart of American comfort food, where pasta dishes often take center stage at family gatherings and potlucks. I remember the first time I tried Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti; the moment I took a bite, I was captivated by the luscious texture and the harmonious blend of flavors.

People love this dish not only for its incredible taste but also for its convenience. It’s a one-pan wonder that can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The creamy sauce envelops the spaghetti, creating a satisfying meal that is both hearty and indulgent. Whether you’re serving it to a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is sure to become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Spaghetti

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
2. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside. I like to drizzle a little olive oil over it to keep it from sticking together while I prepare the sauce.

Making the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat the tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
2. Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine with the garlic.
3. Add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. After the sauce has simmered, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. This is a good time to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Combining the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. I find it easiest to use a hand mixer for this step, but you can also use a whisk if you prefer a workout!
2. Once the cream cheese and Parmesan are well combined, add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl. Pour in the tomato sauce and mix everything together until the spaghetti is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens, and the creamy texture starts to form!
3. Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

Baking the Dish

1. Now, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top of the spaghetti mixture. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning too quickly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
3. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible at this point!

Serving the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

1. Once out of the oven, let the dish cool for about 5 minutes. This will help the cheese set a little, making it easier to serve.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. I love the freshness it brings to the dish!
3. Serve warm, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this baked cream cheese spaghetti. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

• If you want to add some protein, consider mixing in cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken into the sauce.
• For a veggie twist, you can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce.
• Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes!
• This dish can be

  Conclusion:

  In conclusion, this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is truly a must-try dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the comforting flavors of pasta. The unique blend of cream cheese and traditional spaghetti ingredients creates a rich and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. I highly recommend serving this dish with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the pasta. For those looking to mix things up, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even some cooked chicken or sausage for added protein. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, to customize the flavor to your liking. I encourage you to give this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti a try and experience the delightful combination of flavors for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this incredible dish together! Happy cooking! Print

  Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti: A Deliciously Cheesy Twist on Classic Pasta

  

  Print Recipe

  Enjoy a creamy and cheesy twist on pasta with this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. Featuring a rich tomato sauce, a blend of cheeses, and a crispy topping, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

  • Author: Dottie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 8 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

  Instructions

  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 1 tablespoon of salt).
  2. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside. Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
  4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic.
  6. Add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir and let simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Use a hand mixer or whisk until well combined.
  9. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl, pour in the tomato sauce, and mix until the spaghetti is evenly coated.
  10. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  11. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
  12. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  13. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  14. Let the dish cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
  15. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor and color.
  16. Serve warm, and enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread.

  Notes

  • For added protein, mix in cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken into the sauce.
  • For a veggie twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.
  • Adjust spices to your taste; add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.