This Creamy Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce and Cheese is a cozy, satisfying dish that combines tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and a perfectly golden topping. Each bite captures a blend of flavors that’s comforting and utterly delicious, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals when you’re craving something hearty and filling.
With a foundation of spaghetti smothered in cream cheese, then layered with a savory meat sauce and topped with a bubbling cheese crust, this dish is like a baked spaghetti casserole but with a luscious, creamy twist. Follow along to create a mouthwatering dinner that everyone will love.
Recipe Overview
| Ingredient | Amount | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 12 oz | Cook until al dente (10-12 minutes), then drain and set aside. |
| Lean Ground Beef | 1 lb | Brown in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat. |
| Spaghetti Sauce | 1 jar (28 oz) | Add to the browned meat and simmer for a few minutes to develop flavor. |
| Cream Cheese (softened) | 8 oz | Mix with cooked spaghetti, garlic, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt until well combined. |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove | Adds aromatic depth to the pasta mixture. |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 tsp | Enhances the cream cheese mixture with classic Italian flavors. |
| Garlic Salt | Pinch | Season the pasta for a subtle garlic flavor. |
| Parmesan Cheese, grated | ½ cup | Sprinkle over the top before baking for added cheesy flavor and texture. |
| Mozzarella Cheese, shredded | ½ cup | Top the casserole before baking for a melty, bubbly finish. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti, and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Be careful not to overcook; you want the pasta to retain a bit of firmness, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness, then add the jar of spaghetti sauce. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta with Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of garlic salt. Toss until every strand of pasta is coated in the creamy mixture, creating a rich and flavorful base layer for the bake.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish. This helps prevent the pasta from sticking and adds extra flavor. Next, add the cream cheese-coated spaghetti in an even layer, then pour the remaining meat sauce over the top, spreading it out to cover the pasta.
- Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce layer, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella. This combination will create a bubbly, golden-brown crust as it bakes. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Let it Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve. Pair with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Serving Suggestions & Variations
Pair this rich, creamy baked spaghetti with classic Italian sides like garlic bread and a Caesar or mixed green salad. For an added kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over each serving or drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze for a tangy contrast. If you’d like to add more vegetables, consider layering in cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking directly from the fridge.
Q: What other cheeses can I use?
A: Feel free to customize the cheese layer! Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses work wonderfully as toppings. For a bit of extra flavor, sprinkle with a small amount of Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, portion into individual servings, and wrap tightly in foil or place in airtight containers. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to reheat, bake in the oven until hot and bubbly.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: To make this a vegetarian-friendly dish, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a meatless yet flavorful option.
Enjoy the Comforting Flavors of Baked Spaghetti
This Creamy Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce and Cheese is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a blend of creamy, savory, and cheesy flavors that make each bite a delight. Perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, this dish is both comforting and indulgent—sure to become a regular favorite in your meal rotation.