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Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole

A comforting casserole that combines traditional spaghetti with a creamy twist, featuring rich beef marinara and melted cheeses.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 oz spaghetti noodles Cooked al dente.
  • 24 oz jar marinara or spaghetti sauce Use your favorite brand.
Meat and Seasoning
  • 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey Either can be used for this recipe.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning Enhances the flavor.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced Fresh garlic recommended.
Cheeses
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed Creates the creamy sauce.
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese For topping.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melted on top for a gooey texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Cook spaghetti al dente according to package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.
  3. Add cubed cream cheese to hot spaghetti and toss until fully coated and melted into a creamy sauce.
Cooking
  1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown ground beef until cooked through, approximately 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add Italian seasoning and garlic to the beef. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Spread a thin layer of beef marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.
  5. Top with the cream cheese-coated spaghetti, followed by the remaining beef marinara sauce.
  6. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
  7. Bake for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Best served warm with a fresh green salad and garlic bread. For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables or using spicy Italian sausage.