baked cream cheese spaghetti recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best baked cream cheese spaghetti recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – baked cream cheese spaghetti. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a hit with my kids.

I first discovered this recipe on Pinterest, and I was immediately drawn to the idea of combining the richness of cream cheese with the classic comfort of spaghetti. The best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. As a busy mom, I appreciate any recipe that can be prepared in under 30 minutes and still impresses my family.

And trust me, this one does not disappoint.

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

4.9 from 1312 votes

A creamy and comforting baked pasta dish where spaghetti is tossed with a luscious cream cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces spaghetti
1 tablespoon salt
Water for boiling

For the Cream Cheese Sauce

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of salt.
3Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes, or according to package directions.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
5In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, softened butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
6Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
7Add the drained spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss gently with tongs until all the pasta is evenly coated.
8Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
9Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
10Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
11Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
12Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
13Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Aluminum foil

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 17g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 14g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use heavy cream instead of milk. You can add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or sauteed mushrooms for a heartier dish.

Watch Video Of How Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Works

This baked cream cheese spaghetti recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it at home or taking it to a potluck gathering. My kids love helping me prepare it (they get to press down on the cream cheese mixture!)

, and we all enjoy devouring it together as a family. And don’t worry if you have leftovers – this dish reheats beautifully for future meals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Q: What is the origin of baked cream cheese spaghetti?

This recipe has its roots in Italian cuisine, where pasta dishes are often paired with rich and creamy sauces. The addition of cream cheese gives this classic spaghetti dish a unique twist that’s both familiar and exciting.

Q: Can I use low-fat or non-dairy alternatives in this recipe?

While you can experiment with lower-fat options, keep in mind that they may affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish. If you do choose to use lower-fat ingredients, I recommend adding a bit more grated Parmesan cheese to compensate for the loss of richness.

Q: How long can I store leftover baked cream cheese spaghetti in the fridge?

It’s best to consume leftovers within 3-5 days, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe for later use?

Sure! To freeze, let the cooked pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat in the microwave.

Q: Are there any variations on this recipe I can try?

One fun twist is adding some diced ham or cooked bacon to give it a smoky flavor. You can also swap out different types of pasta for a change of pace – like using linguine or fettuccine instead of spaghetti.

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