Layered Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Bowl

This layered baked cream cheese spaghetti bowl is the ultimate comfort food with a twist. The combination of creamy, rich cream cheese and perfectly baked spaghetti creates a comforting and indulgent dish that everyone will love. The layers of spaghetti, savory marinara sauce, and creamy cheese come together to form a hearty, cheesy masterpiece that’s baked to perfection. Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a fun, layered take on classic spaghetti. The cream cheese adds a rich, velvety texture that takes the dish to a whole new level. It’s creamy and cheesy without being too heavy, and the marinara sauce provides the perfect balance of flavor. The baked layers of pasta and cheese give it a deliciously comforting taste, and the fact that it’s all baked together makes it super easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish, perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd!

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 tablespoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.

3. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.

4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the cream cheese mixture and toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.

5. In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Then, add a layer of the cream cheese-coated spaghetti, spreading it out evenly.

6. Top the spaghetti with another layer of marinara sauce, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese on top.

7. Repeat the layering process with the remaining spaghetti, sauce, and cheese.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

9. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people and takes about 45-50 minutes from start to finish, including baking time.

Variations

If I’m looking to switch things up, I love adding ground beef, sausage, or even turkey to the marinara sauce for extra protein. I’ve also added vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce to make it even heartier. For a spicier version, I add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or stir in some hot Italian sausage. I’ve also used different kinds of cheese—cheddar, provolone, or even ricotta—for a fun twist on the classic.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers of this baked spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, though the top layer may not be as crispy. It’s a great make-ahead meal that can be prepped in advance and baked later.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead! I often prepare the whole thing, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it as directed when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! If I don’t have spaghetti, I’ve used penne, rigatoni, or any other pasta shape. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for the pasta you’re using.

Can I use a homemade marinara sauce?

Yes, if I prefer homemade marinara, I make it with tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a splash of olive oil. Homemade sauce brings even more flavor to the dish, but store-bought works just as well for convenience.

Can I make this dish with gluten-free pasta?

Definitely! I’ve used gluten-free spaghetti before, and it works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes have a different cooking time.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, I can freeze this baked spaghetti! Just assemble the dish (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Conclusion

Layered baked cream cheese spaghetti bowl is a delightful, cheesy twist on classic spaghetti that’s sure to become a favorite in my meal rotation. The creamy, tangy layer of cream cheese and sour cream adds richness to the dish, while the marinara sauce gives it that classic Italian flavor. It’s a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime I want something hearty and delicious. I love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying it is to eat—this one is a keeper!

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