Name: Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 16 ounces spaghetti, broken in half; 2 (24-ounce) jars spaghetti sauce; 1¼ pounds ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 8 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 egg; ½ cup sour cream; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is a hearty, satisfying casserole that turns a traditional pasta dinner into a layered, oven-baked masterpiece. With rich meat sauce, a creamy cheese layer, and bubbly mozzarella on top, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser — perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.

Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A fun and comforting twist on classic spaghetti
Creamy cheese filling adds richness and flavor
Bubbly, golden mozzarella topping is irresistible
Easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd
Ideal for potlucks, gatherings, or busy weeknights
Great make-ahead and freezer-friendly option
Balanced with protein, carbs, and dairy
Uses simple pantry and fridge staples
Customizable with your favorite herbs or veggies
Tastes even better the next day

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

16 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
2 (24-ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
1¼ pounds ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
8 ounces ricotta cheese
1 egg
½ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot. Add one jar of spaghetti sauce and mix until evenly coated.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and diced onion. Add garlic, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute more. Drain any excess grease.
Add the second jar of spaghetti sauce to the skillet with the meat mixture. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta, egg, sour cream, and Italian seasoning. Beat on low speed until smooth and creamy.
Layer half the spaghetti noodles in the prepared baking dish. Spread half of the meat sauce on top.
Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over the meat sauce layer. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and all of the parmesan.
Add the remaining spaghetti, top with the rest of the meat sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories: Approximately 518 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute spaghetti with spaghetti squash or a low-carb pasta alternative.
Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of provolone or fontina cheese between the noodles.
Herb-Heavy: Add chopped fresh basil, oregano, or thyme to the cheese mixture.
Kid-Friendly: Mix a handful of chopped spinach into the cheese filling for hidden veggies.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled portions or the entire casserole (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual slices in 1-minute intervals. Add foil if reheating a full casserole to prevent over-browning.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Baked Spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Do I have to use ricotta and cream cheese?

Both cheeses add creaminess, but you can substitute with cottage cheese or use just one, depending on your preference.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well, but spaghetti keeps it classic.

What type of spaghetti sauce should I use?

Any store-bought or homemade tomato-based spaghetti sauce will work. Choose one with Italian herbs for added flavor.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Covering with foil during baking (for part of the time) can help, but this recipe is naturally moist with the sauce and cheese layers.

Can I make this without meat?

Absolutely. It’s delicious as a vegetarian dish with just the cheese and sauce layers.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the center should be hot throughout. An inserted knife should come out hot.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes. Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to the meat sauce or cheese layer.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, Cheesy Baked Spaghetti freezes well before or after baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with this?

A side salad and garlic bread make perfect companions for this rich, comforting meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food — rich, creamy, and irresistibly satisfying. With layers of pasta, hearty meat sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a guaranteed hit for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. Easy to make and even easier to love, this dish will become a regular in your rotation.