**Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole: A Comforting, Cheesy Delight**
If you’re searching for a dish that combines the richness of creamy cheese with the heartiness of pasta, look no further than **Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole**. This comforting casserole is a surefire crowd-pleaser, offering layers of tender spaghetti noodles, a creamy, cheesy sauce, and a savory blend of seasonings. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy weeknight meal, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and a perfect balance of flavors, Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is more than just your average pasta dish. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Let’s dive into why this dish is such a hit, how to make it, and some fun variations to try.
### Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
1. **Creamy and Cheesy**: The star of this dish is undoubtedly the **cream cheese** and **cheddar cheese** that combine to create a rich, velvety sauce. The cream cheese adds an indulgent creaminess that’s perfectly balanced by the melted cheddar, creating a dreamy texture that coats each strand of spaghetti.
2. **Hearty and Filling**: The casserole is not only creamy but also hearty. The spaghetti provides the perfect base, making it a satisfying meal that can stand on its own or be served alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread.
3. **Family-Friendly**: With its comforting flavors and cheesy appeal, this casserole is a hit with both kids and adults. The mild flavor is easy to enjoy, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, parties, or gatherings.
4. **Make-Ahead Friendly**: This casserole is ideal for meal prep or make-ahead meals. You can assemble it the night before and bake it the next day, or you can freeze it for later use, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.
5. **Easily Customizable**: You can add your favorite ingredients to make this casserole even more flavorful. Whether it’s ground meat, vegetables, or herbs, there’s plenty of room to make this dish your own.
### Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
– **8 oz spaghetti** (or any pasta shape you prefer)
– **8 oz cream cheese**, softened
– **1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese** (sharp or mild, based on preference)
– **1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup** (or cream of chicken soup for a variation)
– **1/2 cup milk**
– **1/2 teaspoon garlic powder**
– **1/2 teaspoon onion powder**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **1/2 teaspoon dried basil** (optional, for extra flavor)
– **1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese** (optional, for added richness)
– **1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage** (optional, for a heartier version)
– **1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley** (optional, for garnish)
### How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole
#### Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. For best results, make sure the pasta is al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or whisk to ensure that the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the sauce.
#### Step 3: Season the Sauce
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dried basil (if using) to the mixture. Stir to combine and adjust the seasoning to taste. If you prefer a more flavorful sauce, feel free to add more spices or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
Step 4: Mix the Spaghetti with the Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. If you’re adding cooked ground beef or sausage, mix it in at this point. The meat will add a savory depth of flavor and make the dish even more filling.
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