Combining the richness of cream cheese with classic spaghetti, this dish is like lasagna’s easier cousin—just as satisfying but with less effort. Fresh veggies enhance the flavor of the meat sauce, while a cheesy topping creates the ultimate gooey finish. Once you try it, this creamy, cheesy spaghetti bake might become your new favorite!
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti noodles (340 grams)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (225 grams)
- 1 lb lean ground beef (450 grams)
- 1/2 cup diced green pepper (75 grams)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (75 grams)
- 1/2 cup grated carrots (50 grams)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (5 grams)
- 24 oz jar of spaghetti sauce (680 grams)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (115 grams)
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and return the noodles to the pot.
Add cream cheese
While the noodles are still hot, mix in the softened cream cheese until the spaghetti is evenly coated. Set aside.
Prepare the meat sauce
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced green pepper, onions, grated carrots, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
Season the sauce
Stir in the Italian seasoning. Drain any excess grease from the pan, then return it to the stove.
Add spaghetti sauce
Pour the spaghetti sauce into the skillet with the beef and vegetables. Stir to combine and heat through.
Prepare the baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
Layer the spaghetti
Add the prepared spaghetti on top of the thin layer of meat sauce. Spread it out evenly.
Top with more meat sauce
Pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti, spreading it out to cover the noodles completely.
Sprinkle with Parmesan
Evenly sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the meat sauce layer.
Add mozzarella
Follow with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese to create a gooey, cheesy topping.
Bake the spaghetti
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve warm. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked cream cheese spaghetti recipe brings together the creamy texture of a rich sauce with the classic comfort of baked pasta. The cream cheese adds a luxurious layer of flavor, while the fresh vegetables enhance the meat sauce. Topped with melty cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
Baked cream cheese spaghetti is an easy, versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a satisfying choice for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to earn a spot on your regular dinner rotation!
