🍝 Spaghetti Casserole with Cream Cheese

Spaghetti Casserole with Cream Cheese is a rich, comforting baked pasta dish loaded with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. The cream cheese melts into the sauce, creating a velvety texture that makes this casserole extra creamy and flavorful.

This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, and it’s a great way to turn simple pantry ingredients into a warm and satisfying dinner.

🛒 Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley
• Fresh basil

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat Sauce
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
   Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
   Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

   Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
   Simmer for about 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Creamy Layer
   In a bowl mix together:
   • cream cheese
   • sour cream
   • ½ cup mozzarella cheese

   Stir until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the Casserole
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
   1. Add half of the cooked spaghetti to the bottom.
   2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
   3. Add the remaining spaghetti.
   4. Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top.
5. Add Cheese Topping
   Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
7. Serve
   Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.