# Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, cheesy pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Baked Spaghetti Cream Cheese (Print-Friendly Version) is exactly what you need. Tender spaghetti noodles are lovingly coated in a rich cream cheese blend and layered with savory ground beef tomato sauce, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a dish that combines comfort and flavor effortlessly, ready in just about 30 minutes, making it your new go-to meal for weeknights or anytime you want that hearty home-cooked vibe without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Baked Spaghetti Cream Cheese (Print-Friendly Version) just right hinges on a handful of simple, classic ingredients, each one playing a starring role in building layers of taste, texture, and color. The fresh herbs brighten the sauce, while the trio of cheeses guarantees creamy indulgence and melty goodness.

• 225 grams cooked spaghetti: The perfect pasta base, tender but firm to hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 450 grams ground beef: Adds hearty, savory depth that balances the creamy cheese.
• 680 grams jarred tomato spaghetti sauce: A rich, tangy foundation that marries all the flavors together.
• 225 grams cream cheese, softened: The secret to incredibly smooth, luscious pasta coating.
• 60 grams cheddar cheese, grated: Sharpness that cuts through the creaminess with a vibrant bite.
• 100 grams mozzarella cheese, grated: A gooey topping that melts into a golden, bubbly crust.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, aromatic touch for complexity.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a fresh, slightly sweet herbaceous note.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Light and bright, perfect for rounding out the flavor profile.
• Salt, to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
• Black pepper, to taste: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.

How to Make Baked Spaghetti Cream Cheese (Print-Friendly Version)

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 180°C. Lightly grease your baking dish using oil or nonstick spray—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Getting this first step right sets the stage for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Make the Sauce

In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, brown your ground beef thoroughly, breaking it apart so it cooks evenly and reaches that perfect savory texture. Once cooked, stir in your jarred tomato spaghetti sauce until everything is beautifully combined. Then take it off the heat—this rich meat sauce will infuse your baked spaghetti with unbeatable flavor.

Step 3: Boil the Spaghetti to Al Dente

Next, cook your spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water, following the package instructions for al dente. Properly cooked pasta is key here—it adds just the right bite beneath the creamy cheese without becoming mushy after baking. Drain it well before moving on.

Step 4: Mix Creamy Cheeses and Herbs into the Hot Spaghetti

While the pasta is still warm, stir in the softened cream cheese, grated cheddar, dried basil, oregano, parsley, plus salt and black pepper. The heat helps the cream cheese melt smoothly, coating every strand of spaghetti with a luscious, flavorful layer that’s both indulgent and well-balanced.

Step 5: Layer Your Dish Before Baking

Spread a thin layer of your meat sauce across the baking dish’s bottom, then gently spread your cheesy spaghetti mixture over it. Spoon the remaining meat sauce on top, making sure every bite will have a perfect blend of creamy cheese and hearty meat.

Step 6: Top with Mozzarella and Bake

Finally, sprinkle your grated mozzarella over the entire dish. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese bubbles and turns golden. This final step gives you that irresistible melted cheese crust that makes you want to dive right in.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve

Remove your baked masterpiece from the oven and let it rest briefly so the layers settle. Then garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve immediately for that perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness.

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Cream Cheese (Print-Friendly Version)

Garnishes

To elevate this comforting dish even more, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil right before serving. A light dusting of grated Parmesan can also add a lovely, sharp contrast to the creamy layers. These simple touches bring vibrant freshness and visual appeal that make each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

This baked spaghetti pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads tossed in vinaigrette, roasted seasonal vegetables, or even garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. The key is to balance the richness of the pasta with lighter, fresher sides that complement without overpowering.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual ramekins for perfect personal portions. Alternatively, try layering the baked spaghetti in clear glass dishes or bowls to show off those cheesy, saucy layers—a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Baked Spaghetti Cream Cheese (Print-Friendly Version) stays delicious for up to 3-4 days and often tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have melded fully.

Freezing

This dish also freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire baking dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil to avoid drying out the pasta and bake in a 175°C oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, stirring halfway, for a quick and easy meal anytime.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta with ridges can hold onto the creamy sauce just as well. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is it necessary to soften the cream cheese beforehand?

Yes, softening the cream cheese first ensures it melts evenly and blends smoothly with the pasta, creating that irresistible creamy texture.

Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?

Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well if you want a lighter or vegetarian variation.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or sprinkle some chili powder into the cheese mixture for a nice kick of heat.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?

You can assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator. When ready, simply bake it fresh according to the recipe instructions for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Spaghetti Cream Cheese (Print-Friendly Version) is a heartfelt, satisfying meal that’s as simple as it is scrumptious. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again—whether for your family, friends, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this creamy, cheesy, comforting pasta bake, it’s going to become a fast favorite that you’ll love sharing with everyone at your table.