Description

This Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole is a rich and creamy pasta dish that combines tender spaghetti with a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this casserole is baked to golden perfection with savory sautéed onions and a hint of smoked paprika for added depth.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

1 pound (16 oz) spaghetti

Creamy Sauce Base

8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
2 large eggs, beaten (optional)

Cheeses

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Vegetables & Aromatics

½ cup finely diced yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced

Toppings & Seasonings

2 tablespoons butter, divided
½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

Chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish lightly with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain thoroughly, rinse with cool water to stop cooking, and set aside.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Make the Creamy Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, beaten eggs (if using), ¾ cup shredded cheddar, ¼ cup grated Parmesan, sautéed onion and garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture bowl. Gently toss using tongs or a spatula to evenly coat all noodles with the creamy sauce.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the coated spaghetti mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs (or crushed Ritz crackers), remaining ¼ cup cheddar cheese, remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Stir until well combined.
Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole surface. Optionally, dot with small pieces of the remaining butter for extra richness. Bake uncovered in the oven for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
Serve: Serve warm and enjoy this delightful, comforting baked pasta dish.

Notes

Using eggs is optional but helps set the casserole for easier slicing.
For a crispier topping, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and red pepper flakes, depending on your preference.
Letting the casserole rest before serving allows it to firm up and enhances flavor melding.
Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, though texture may vary slightly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Baked spaghetti casserole, creamy pasta bake, cream cheese spaghetti, cheesy baked casserole, comfort food pasta