How long can I store leftover Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole in the fridge?

You can store leftovers of the casserole in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When reheating, cover it with foil or use the microwave to retain that creamy texture and prevent the pasta from drying out.

Can I freeze Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole and bake later?

Yes — you can freeze the unbaked casserole portion for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, then bake from frozen adding extra time until the center is fully hot. This is a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

What pasta shapes or sauces work instead of spaghetti and marinara in this casserole?

You can absolutely swap in another noodle like penne, rigatoni, or ziti — just adjust cooking times accordingly. If you use a chunkier or heavily seasoned sauce, balance it with fewer herbs so the creamy cheese layer still shines. These variety options make the dish flexible while keeping that rich, baked pasta bake appeal.

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole That Delivers Pure Comfort

Description

A creamy, cheesy, comforting baked pasta dish made with tender spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and a velvety cream cheese coating that delivers the perfect weeknight casserole.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz spaghetti
1 lb ground beef or turkey
24 oz marinara sauce
8 oz softened cream cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup grated parmesan
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook spaghetti to al dente and drain.
Brown ground beef or turkey with garlic in olive oil.
Stir in marinara, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer briefly.
Coat warm spaghetti with softened cream cheese until creamy.
Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish.
Add cream-cheese-coated spaghetti, then top with remaining sauce.
Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan over the top.
Bake at 350°F until bubbly and lightly golden.
Let rest a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use a splash of pasta water if the cream cheese mixture feels too thick.
Broil the top for 1 to 2 minutes for crisp, golden edges.
Slightly undercook the pasta to avoid mushiness during baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520
Sugar: 7
Sodium: 820
Fat: 28
Saturated Fat: 14
Unsaturated Fat: 10
Trans Fat: 0.5
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 3
Protein: 28
Cholesterol: 95