Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a rich and comforting pasta dish that combines creamy cheeses, sautéed onions and garlic, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it’s an indulgent twist on traditional spaghetti, ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound (16 oz) spaghetti
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 large eggs, beaten (optional)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- ½ cup finely diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Toppings
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish thoroughly using non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, approximately 8–10 minutes. Drain well and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, beaten eggs (if using), ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, the sautéed onion and garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend everything into a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Toss Spaghetti with Cheese Mixture: Add the cooked and cooled spaghetti to the bowl with the creamy mixture. Gently toss with tongs or a spatula, ensuring all noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the coated spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it into an even layer for uniform baking.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers) with the remaining ¼ cup cheddar cheese, remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and a pinch of paprika. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the spaghetti casserole. Optionally, dot the top with small pieces of any remaining butter. Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the center is bubbling.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 10–15 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
- Serve: Serve the casserole warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy comfort in every bite.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk, but 2% milk works well too.
- The eggs are optional but help to bind the casserole for a firmer texture.
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery crunchy topping.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it firm up and makes serving easier.
- Fresh herbs for garnish add a nice pop of color and freshness.
Keywords: baked spaghetti casserole, cream cheese pasta bake, cheesy spaghetti casserole, comfort food pasta, baked pasta recipe
