Ingredients
To whip up this delectable Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Recipe Directions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Spaghetti and Cream Cheese Mixture
Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss until the spaghetti is evenly coated.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To prepare this Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large pot for boiling spaghetti
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish
- Oven
Storage Instructions
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.
Food Pairings
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. For a complete meal, serve with garlic bread or garlic knots on the side. And don’t forget a glass of your favorite wine or a refreshing iced tea to wash it all down.
FAQ
Can I add vegetables to this casserole? Absolutely! Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, spinach, or any other vegetables you love to the cream cheese mixture before baking.
Can I use a different type of pasta? While spaghetti works beautifully in this recipe, you can certainly use other pasta shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine if you prefer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
Conclusion
There you have it – a foolproof recipe for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just craving some comfort food for yourself, this dish delivers on flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your loved ones! For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to subscribe to our blog. Happy cooking!