Description
This comforting casserole blends creamy, cheesy goodness with the heartiness of pasta for a baked dish that’s simple yet indulgent. Cream cheese forms the base of a smooth, rich sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti, while mozzarella and Parmesan bring the perfect gooey top layer. Customize it with proteins or veggies for an even more satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
8 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta shape)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup milk (whole milk for extra richness)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
Optional Add-Ins:
Cooked ground beef, sausage, or chicken
Sautéed vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc.)
Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Make the cream cheese sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and milk until smooth and creamy. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3️⃣ Combine pasta and sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.
4️⃣ Assemble the bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
5️⃣ Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. For a more golden crust, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
6️⃣ Serve
Let the pasta bake cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
This dish is excellent for meal prep and reheats beautifully. For added protein and texture, mix in cooked sausage or vegetables before baking. You can also try using flavored cream cheese for a twist—like garlic and herb or jalapeño. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave.