Name: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound spaghetti; 1 pound ground beef; 1 jar marinara sauce (24 ounces); 1 block cream cheese (8 ounces); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup cottage cheese; 2 teaspoons garlic (minced or finely chopped); 1 cup cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese; Nonstick cooking spray

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 8 reviews

I absolutely adore this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe because it combines all the comforting flavors of a classic pasta bake with a rich, creamy twist that always hits the spot. The melding of cream cheese, ricotta, and cottage cheese with tender spaghetti and savory ground beef creates a dish that feels like a warm, hearty hug on a plate. It’s one of those recipes that I turn to when I want something that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

When I make this casserole, the first thing that stands out to me is the incredible flavor profile. The tangy cream cheese combined with ricotta and cottage cheese gives the dish a luscious creaminess that elevates the ordinary baked spaghetti into something truly special. Add to that the robust, savory tomato and ground beef sauce, and you have a balance of textures and tastes that make every bite deliciously satisfying. It’s comfort food with a touch of elegance, all baked together into a bubbling casserole that’s hard to resist.

What I really appreciate about this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is how straightforward it is to make. From boiling the spaghetti to browning the beef and mixing the cheeses, each step is simple and practical, yet the end result feels so impressive. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when I want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic dish for occasions like family gatherings or potlucks, where sharing a warm and cheesy casserole always brings smiles around the table. The ease combined with the delicious payoff truly makes it stand out in my recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls and dishes arranged on a white marbled surface, each holding different ingredients. There is a small rectangular block of white cheese on a white dish in the top left corner. Next to it is a small white bowl with dried green herbs. Toward the center, a medium glass bowl is filled with creamy white ricotta cheese, and beside it, another glass bowl holds shredded white mozzarella cheese. Nearby, a plump white garlic bulb rests on the marble. Below the cheese bowls, a smaller white bowl contains red marinara sauce with a chunky texture. A bundle of uncooked yellow spaghetti is placed upright next to the sauce. Small glass bowls with grated cheese, grated Parmesan, and more dried green herbs are scattered around the main items. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with everyday ingredients that come together in a way that’s deliciously rich and satisfying. Each component contributes something special, from the silky cream cheese that adds tang, to the hearty ground beef that boosts flavor and texture.

Spaghetti: The foundation of this casserole, cooked al dente to hold up well during baking.
Ground beef: Provides a savory richness and meaty bite that pairs perfectly with the cheeses.
Marinara sauce: A jar of your favorite tomato sauce brings flavor and moisture to the dish.
Cream cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy depth that makes this casserole so unique.
Ricotta cheese: Light and fluffy, it blends beautifully with the cream cheese for texture.
Cottage cheese: Offers a mild creaminess and a bit of protein boost.
Garlic: Gives the casserole a savory, aromatic punch to elevate the flavor.
Cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly on top for a golden, cheesy crust.
Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, sharp finish.
Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures the casserole doesn’t stick to the dish and makes cleanup easier.

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9″ by 13″ casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente according to the package instructions. Be careful not to overcook, as it will bake further in the oven.

Step 3: While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef over medium heat in a large skillet. Stir often to break it up evenly. If you aren’t using lean beef, drain any excess fat once browned.

Step 4: Add the marinara sauce to the browned beef and stir. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors and until the sauce is hot, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: In a large mixing bowl, cut the cream cheese into chunks and add the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, and garlic. Mix them together until smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Add the cooked spaghetti into the cheese mixture and toss gently to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy cheese blend.

Step 7: Begin layering your casserole by spooning enough of the meat sauce into the bottom of the casserole dish to cover it evenly. Then spread the spaghetti and cheese mixture over the sauce.

Step 8: Pour the remaining meat sauce over the spaghetti layer, smoothing it out evenly. Finally, sprinkle the cheddar cheese and parmesan cheese evenly on top to create a beautiful golden crust.

Step 9: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden, bubbly, and hot throughout.

Servings and Timing

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe serves about 8 generous portions, making it perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. The prep time, including boiling pasta and browning beef, takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes. Baking takes another 25 to 30 minutes, so you’re looking at around 50 minutes total from start to finish. There’s no additional resting time needed, but you might want to let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set slightly and make serving easier.

How to Serve This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

A white dish holds a baked lasagna with a rich, melted cheese top layer that is golden with spots of light brown. The lasagna is cut into square pieces with one piece lifted up by a metal spatula, revealing multiple layers underneath: a top layer of gooey cheese, followed by a reddish tomato sauce, pasta sheets, and creamy white layers mixed with cheese. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled over the top, adding a fresh pop of color. Strings of melted cheese stretch from the lifted piece back to the dish. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this casserole, I love pairing it with simple green salads dressed with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, adds a fresh, crunchy contrast that balances the creamy pasta perfectly. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or crusty Italian bread are fantastic accompaniments that help scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Presentation-wise, I find that garnishing the hot casserole with freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of vibrant color and an herbaceous note that brightens the dish. You can serve this directly from the casserole dish for a casual family-style meal or portion it onto individual plates with a sprinkle of extra parmesan for a more polished look. It’s delightful warm straight from the oven, but also holds up well if you want to keep it at room temperature for a buffet or potluck spread.

For beverages, a chilled glass of medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Chianti pairs wonderfully, balancing out the tangy cheeses and savory beef. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or an iced herbal tea complements the comforting flavors without overpowering them. I find this recipe fits beautifully into weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want to impress guests with minimal fuss.

Variations

I love to experiment with this casserole by swapping out some ingredients to fit different tastes or dietary needs. For example, I’ve used ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of beef for a slightly different flavor profile. If you want to add some fresh veggies into the mix, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach are excellent additions that boost flavor and nutrition.

If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta, and make sure your marinara sauce doesn’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients. For a vegetarian twist, leave out the meat and add layers of roasted vegetables and extra cheese. Though not vegan because of the cheese, you can experiment with vegan cream cheese and ricotta substitutes alongside plant-based ground “meat” alternatives for a similar creamy texture but dairy-free.

Another variation I enjoy is adding fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil into the cheese mixture for an aromatic lift. Alternatively, switching out cheddar for mozzarella or fontina cheese offers a different melt and flavor harmony. You can also try baking this casserole in individual ramekins for smaller portions or a more elegant presentation.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, I recommend storing them in an airtight container as soon as the casserole has cooled to room temperature. Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Using glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight-fitting lids helps maintain freshness and prevents any odors from transferring.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to save portions for later. I like to freeze it in single-serving airtight containers or cover the entire casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just be sure to label it with the date before freezing.

Reheating

To reheat leftover or frozen baked cream cheese spaghetti casserole, I find it’s best to thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator first. Warm it in a 350-degree oven until heated through—this usually takes around 20 minutes for refrigerated leftovers or 40-50 minutes for frozen portions, covered with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture uneven and sometimes rubbery. For stovetop reheats, you can also gently warm portions in a skillet with a splash of marinara sauce to retain moisture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic here, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Just make sure to adjust cooking times for al dente according to the package instructions, as the pasta will bake further in the casserole.

Is it necessary to use all three cheeses (cream cheese, ricotta, and cottage cheese)?

The combination really makes this recipe special by creating a rich, creamy texture and balanced flavor. If you want, you can experiment by using just cream cheese and ricotta or substituting cottage cheese with more ricotta, but the trio gives the ideal creamy consistency I love.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it for the full recommended time plus a few extra minutes if it’s cold to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.

What can I do if I want a crispier topping?

For a golden, crispier top, try sprinkling additional shredded cheddar or even some breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese on top before baking. You can also broil the casserole for a minute or two at the end of baking, but watch it closely to avoid burning.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Definitely! This casserole freezes very well. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing and seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor retention.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe a try—it’s one of my all-time favorite comfort foods that’s surprisingly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Its creamy, cheesy layers paired with hearty meat and tomato sauce bring such warmth and satisfaction to the table. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy night or sharing with friends at a gathering, this casserole never disappoints and always leaves everyone asking for seconds.