If you’re craving a comforting and indulgent pasta dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and a total crowd-pleaser, then this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is about to become your new favorite. With its luscious cream cheese sauce, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a bubbly golden crust of mozzarella and Parmesan, this dish effortlessly combines simplicity and richness in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking to impress guests, this recipe delivers amazing flavor and cozy vibes in just about 40 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, each playing a pivotal role in building its creamy texture and comforting flavor. From the silky cream cheese to the sharp Parmesan, every element is essential to craft the ultimate baked pasta experience.
- 8 oz spaghetti: Use any pasta shape you love, but spaghetti holds the sauce beautifully and cooks to a perfect al dente texture.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: This is the star of the sauce, lending a rich, tangy creaminess that sets this dish apart.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds smoothness and helps thin out the cream cheese to create a luscious sauce.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings depth and subtle savory notes without overpowering the creaminess.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Adds a mild sweetness that rounds out the flavor.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: A gentle peppery kick that balances the richness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Gives that irresistibly gooey, melty topping and creamy swirls inside.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping: Adds a delightful sharpness and gorgeous golden color when baked.
- Optional add-ins: Cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken for protein; sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for texture and freshness; red pepper flakes for a spicy touch.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so you don’t want it mushy. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to soak up that luscious sauce.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and milk until the mixture is smooth and velvety. The cream cheese needs to be softened so it blends effortlessly, creating the perfect base sauce. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse the sauce with subtle layers of delicious flavor.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently add the cooked spaghetti to your luscious cream cheese mixture, tossing to coat every strand evenly. This is where the sauce really clings to the pasta, ensuring every bite is creamy and rich. Fold in half a cup of shredded mozzarella and a quarter cup of Parmesan cheese while the mix is still warm so the cheese melts into the pasta, building that irresistible cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer your creamy, cheesy pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top to create that signature golden, bubbly crust you’ll love.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake the dish for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese topping is melted, golden, and bubbling beautifully. If you crave an extra crispy top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes—but keep a watchful eye so it doesn’t burn. This final step adds a delicious texture contrast to the creamy pasta underneath.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, allow your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe a few minutes to cool and set—this helps the sauce thicken slightly and makes serving easier. Then dig in, and savor the warm, comforting hug of creamy, cheesy pasta.
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
The best part about serving this dish is adding personal touches. Fresh parsley sprinkle adds pops of green and a hint of brightness. A few red pepper flakes can elevate the creaminess with a zingy kick. Don’t forget an extra dusting of Parmesan to amplify the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
Since this spaghetti is rich and filling, pairing it with light, fresh sides works wonders. Tossed green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement the creamy pasta perfectly without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized portions. You can even add a layer of sautéed greens or crumble some crispy bacon on top for added texture and flavor bursts. Presentation is a chance to make this dish your own!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from your Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe keep very well covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. As the sauce settles, the flavors meld even more, making it a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
This baked spaghetti freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Portion it into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags before baking or after cooling for future convenience. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving works too, just add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely! Feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep that perfect al dente bite.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Skip any meat add-ins and load up on sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers to keep it hearty and flavorful.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Cream cheese is key to the sauce’s creamy texture and tang, but you could experiment with ricotta cheese for a slightly different flavor or mascarpone for an even richer sauce.
What if I want a spicier version?
Mix red pepper flakes into the sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving to add a lovely heat that balances the creamy softness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta varieties, available at most grocery stores these days.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe is one of those comforting, foolproof dishes that never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. Its creamy richness, cheesy crust, and simple ingredients make it a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend indulgence. Give it a try and see how effortlessly delicious homemade baked pasta can be—you’ll want to make it again and again!
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti recipe combines tender spaghetti tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made from cream cheese and milk, seasoned with garlic and onion powder, and baked to bubbly, golden perfection with layers of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish can be customized with your favorite cooked meats or sautéed vegetables for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta shape)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken (optional)
- Sautéed vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.) (optional)
- Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make the Cream Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and whole milk until smooth and creamy. Then stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to flavor the sauce evenly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti into the cream cheese mixture and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in ½ cup shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese until they melt into the creamy mixture.
- Assemble the Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan cheese over the top for a delicious cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. For an extra golden and crisp crust, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan cheese as desired for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk, but you can substitute with 2% or skim milk for a lighter dish.
- Add cooked ground meats or sautéed vegetables to the pasta mixture for added protein and nutrients.
- Watch the casserole closely if broiling at the end to avoid burning the cheese topping.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave and make a great next-day meal.
