If you’re in search of a quick, budget-friendly family dinner that bursts with creamy, cheesy goodness, look no further than this Creamy Spaghetti Casserole. This delightful dish takes the classic spaghetti experience and elevates it into a comforting baked casserole that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or even dinner parties.

The rich, creamy sauce envelops every strand of pasta, while the baked topping delivers an irresistible golden crust. It’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

1. Perfect for Busy Nights: Uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together quickly.
2. Family-Friendly: Creamy and comforting flavors everyone, from kids to adults, will enjoy.
3. Make Ahead & Freeze: Prepare it in advance for stress-free meal planning.
4. Customizable: Easily adapted for meat lovers, vegetarians, or those on dairy-free diets.

Suggestions for Meat Lovers and Those Who Avoid Dairy

• Ground Beef or Turkey: Browned and seasoned for added flavor.
• Italian Sausage: Choose mild or spicy for a savory kick.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: A quick and convenient option.
• Bacon Bits: For a smoky touch.
• Dairy-Free Cream Cheese: Almond or cashew-based cream cheese works beautifully.
• Dairy-Free Shredded Cheese: Opt for meltable varieties made from coconut or oat milk.
• Coconut Milk or Oat Cream: Swap in for milk in the sauce.
• Nutritional Yeast: This adds a cheesy flavor without dairy!

Tips When Making Spaghetti Casserole

1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: It will continue to cook when baked.
2. Mix Sauce and Pasta Thoroughly: This ensures every bite is creamy and delicious.
3. Top with Extra Cheese: For that irresistible bubbly golden-brown crust.
4. Let It Rest: A few minutes before serving will help the dish set perfectly.

Additions, Mix-Ins, and Pasta Suggestions

• Fresh spinach leaves
• Sliced onions
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Sautéed broccoli rabe
• Diced tomatoes
• Artichoke hearts
• Cooked boneless chicken, steak, pork tenderloin, or lamb
• Stir-fried, roasted, or steamed vegetables
• Shrimp, scallops, lobster, or clams
• Penne pasta, shells, or bow-tie pasta are also great alternatives for this recipe.

Let’s Get Cooking!

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound spaghetti
• 4 ounces of softened cream cheese
• 1 cup milk (substituting 2 percent or even half-and-half is fine)
• 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 13 x 9 inch oven-proof casserole dish.
2. Cook the Spaghetti: Follow the package instructions to cook the spaghetti, then drain.
3. Sauté the Garlic: In a skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, taking care not to let it brown.
4. Add the Cream Sauce: On a low simmer, incorporate the softened cream cheese and milk into the skillet. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Mix in the Cheeses: Add the Parmesan cheese and half of the mozzarella; season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
6. Toss with Pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta with the sauce, ensuring every strand is well coated.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased casserole dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. For an added touch, broil the top to achieve a perfect crust.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Top with sautéed breadcrumbs, red pepper flakes, and more grated cheese if desired. Fresh herbs make a lovely finishing touch!