Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Recipe -

Introduction

There’s nothing like a comforting dish that combines the richness of creamy cheese with the heartiness of pasta. Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is a delightful and indulgent recipe that blends spaghetti noodles with a luscious cream cheese sauce, topped with melted mozzarella for an irresistible, gooey finish. This dish offers a unique twist on traditional spaghetti, infusing it with creamy flavors and a cheesy texture that will make everyone at the table reach for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a dish for a gathering, this recipe will surely become a favorite. It’s simple, filling, and utterly delicious.

Let’s dive into the details of this easy-to-make recipe that will have your guests asking for the secret ingredient!

Ingredients

12 oz spaghetti noodles
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup milk (or as needed for desired consistency)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside. Make sure to save about 1/2 cup of pasta water to help adjust the sauce’s consistency later if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce

In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and cook until it softens, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Once softened, slowly add the sour cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Spaghetti with the Cream Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the cream cheese sauce, tossing gently to ensure each strand of pasta is coated evenly with the sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water (a tablespoon at a time) to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 4: Add Mozzarella Cheese

Stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese into the spaghetti mixture. This will make the sauce extra cheesy and delicious. Once the cheese is fully incorporated, transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and the breadcrumbs over the top of the pasta. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. For an extra crispy top, you can place it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time.

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Variation

Vegetarian Version: Add sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the pasta mixture for a hearty and healthier twist.
Meat Lovers’ Delight: For a meaty version, you can add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded rotisserie chicken to the spaghetti mixture before baking. This adds extra protein and a savory depth of flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a tablespoon of hot sauce into the cream cheese sauce.

COOKING Note:

Cream Cheese Consistency: If your cream cheese isn’t softening quickly enough, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl for about 10-15 seconds before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap out the mozzarella for other types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish Pairing: Serve this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
Bread Pairing: Garlic bread or a crusty baguette would complement this dish perfectly, allowing you to scoop up any creamy sauce left on your plate.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs nicely with the creamy pasta, cutting through the richness of the dish.

Tips

Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Since the pasta will bake in the sauce, make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking.
Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce, adjust the amount of milk you add to the cream cheese mixture. More milk creates a creamier, looser sauce, while less milk makes the sauce thicker and more indulgent.
Cheese Layer: For an extra cheesy experience, increase the amount of mozzarella or add a layer of provolone cheese to the top before baking.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Nutritional Information

FAQs

Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to serve, bake it for a little longer to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works great for this recipe, you can also use penne, rotini, or any other type of pasta that you prefer.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

To lighten up the recipe, you can substitute the cream cheese with a reduced-fat version, use a lower-fat sour cream, and use less mozzarella cheese. You can also reduce the breadcrumbs for a lighter topping.

Can I freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti?

Yes, you can freeze the baked spaghetti. Once it cools, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like your dishes spicy, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese sauce.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender noodles, and golden, melted mozzarella topping, it’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe will undoubtedly be a hit. It’s simple to make, incredibly customizable, and packed with flavor. Enjoy a plate of this delicious pasta dish and savor the richness of every bite!