Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese

If you’re on the lookout for a hearty and indulgent meal that takes the classic spaghetti and meatballs to the next level, then Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese is exactly what you need! This delectable dish combines all the comforting flavors of traditional spaghetti with the savory goodness of meatballs, topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese sauce that adds a luscious twist. Imagine tender pasta, juicy meatballs, and gooey melted cheese, all baked together to create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for the family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to something special, this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese is sure to become a new favorite. The creamy sauce not only enhances the taste but also gives the dish a luxurious texture that will leave everyone asking for the recipe. Plus, it’s an easy recipe to prepare with a few simple ingredients, ideal for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without the fuss.

In this post, we’ll break down every step to make this delicious meal, share helpful tips, and suggest a few variations to personalize it to your taste. Let’s dive in and explore why Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese is the ultimate comfort food dish you’ve been craving!

What is Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese?

Baked spaghetti and meatballs with cream cheese is a twist on the classic spaghetti and meatballs. While the traditional version includes a simple tomato sauce, this variation adds the rich, creamy texture of cream cheese to the dish, which melts perfectly into the sauce, creating a luscious, velvety base. The meatballs are baked separately before being added to the pasta, allowing them to stay juicy and flavorful while absorbing all of the delicious sauce.

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance of flavors and textures: hearty spaghetti, savory meatballs, tangy cream cheese, and a sprinkle of cheese on top to create a golden, bubbly crust.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re a busy parent trying to feed the family, someone hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a classic comfort food with a twist, this dish is sure to impress. It’s also an excellent choice for meal prepping – just make extra and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, it’s easy to make substitutions. The dish is also great for people who enjoy cheesy, creamy pasta dishes but want a little extra protein from the meatballs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients for this recipe:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• Bread crumbs
• Egg
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh garlic, minced
• Parsley
• Salt and pepper

For the Spaghetti:

• Spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)
• Cream cheese (for that rich, creamy texture)
• Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Mozzarella cheese (for a gooey, cheesy topping)
• Parmesan cheese (for an added layer of flavor)

Kitchen Equipment:

• Large baking dish (9×13 or similar size)
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet (for the meatballs)
• Large pot (for boiling the spaghetti)
• Skillet (optional, for browning meatballs before baking)
• Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan)
• Spoon or spatula (for stirring)
• Aluminum foil (optional, to cover the dish while baking)

Directions for Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese

Now that you have everything ready, let’s walk through the steps to make this hearty and comforting dish!

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll the meat mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Spaghetti

1. While the meatballs are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, heat your marinara sauce over medium heat. Stir in the cream cheese, allowing it to melt and combine with the sauce. This will create a rich, creamy base for your spaghetti.
2. Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, or more garlic for extra flavor.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. In the large baking dish, combine the cooked spaghetti with the creamy sauce. Toss the pasta to coat it evenly.
2. Add the baked meatballs to the pasta and sauce mixture, gently nestling them into the spaghetti.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and extra Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta and meatballs.
4. Bake the dish in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your baked spaghetti and meatballs with cream cheese is ready, serve it up hot and enjoy! This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for an extra indulgence.

Tips and Variations

Here are some helpful tips and creative variations to boost your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese.

1. Meatball Substitutes

If you prefer to switch up the meat or avoid beef, you’re in luck! This recipe is incredibly versatile:

• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap the ground beef for leaner poultry such as ground turkey or chicken. These options will provide a lighter take on the traditional meatballs without sacrificing flavor.
• Vegetarian Meatballs: For a meat-free alternative, consider using plant-based protein. Many brands offer delicious vegetarian meatballs made from ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, or soy. These can be used in place of traditional meatballs, giving you a hearty, meatless meal.
• Homemade Meatballs with Alternative Proteins: If you want to create your own meatballs, you can use a mix of ground beef with turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or incorporate quinoa or oats for added texture and nutrition.

2. Vegetarian Option

For a completely vegetarian version of Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese, there are several ways to go about it:

• Skip the Meatballs: Instead of using meatballs, you can opt for extra vegetables to add flavor and texture to your dish. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are excellent additions that will pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: For more depth of flavor, you can roast vegetables like eggplant, cauliflower, or broccoli before adding them to the dish. Roasting brings out a delicious caramelized flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Tofu or Tempeh: If you want to keep a protein element in the dish, consider using cubed tofu or tempeh. Both are excellent plant-based protein sources that soak up the sauce and add texture.

3. Cream Cheese Substitutes

While cream cheese is the star of the sauce in this recipe, there are a few substitutions that can still give you a creamy, smooth texture:

• Ricotta Cheese: If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, ricotta cheese is an excellent alternative. It has a similar texture and a slightly milder flavor that still provides richness to the dish. You can also blend ricotta with a bit of heavy cream for a silkier texture.
• Sour Cream and Heavy Cream: A combination of sour cream and heavy cream can work well as a substitute for cream cheese. Sour cream will give the dish a slight tang, while the heavy cream adds the necessary richness and creaminess.
• Greek Yogurt: For a tangy twist and a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt can be used. It will provide a similar creamy texture but with a bit more protein. Just be mindful of the tanginess, which may alter the flavor profile slightly.

4. Extra Cheesy

If you love cheese, there’s always room for more cheese in this dish:

• Provolone or Fontina Cheese: These cheeses melt beautifully and add a wonderful depth of flavor. Add a layer of shredded provolone or fontina on top of the pasta before baking for an even cheesier, gooier dish.
• Cheddar or Gruyère: Want to try something a little different? Cheddar adds a sharp flavor that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the sauce, while Gruyère has a nutty undertone that pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes.
• Parmesan Crust: For a crispy, flavorful crust, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top of the dish before baking. It will melt and form a golden, crispy layer that’s absolutely irresistible.

5. Make Ahead

One of the best things about Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese is that it’s perfect for meal prepping or making ahead:

• Assemble in Advance: You can prepare the entire dish (meatballs, sauce, and pasta) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble everything in your baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as instructed.
• Freezing: This dish also freezes wonderfully for future meals. If you want to make a large batch and store some for later, assemble the dish, but before baking, cover it tightly and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual. For best results, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from frozen.
• Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions for quick meals on busy days.

6. Creative Sauces and Seasoning

• Homemade Sauce: If you prefer to make your own marinara or tomato sauce, it’s easy to elevate the flavor by adding garlic, basil, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes. A splash of red wine can also add depth to your sauce.
• Spicy Version: For those who like a bit of heat, add some chili flakes to the sauce or top with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving. This contrast will enhance the creaminess and balance the richness of the dish.
• Pesto Sauce: For a unique twist, try adding a spoonful of pesto sauce to the creamy mixture. The herbaceous flavor of basil pesto pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and meatballs.

Storing Leftovers

For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Leftovers also freeze well for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Food and Drink Pairings

This baked spaghetti and meatballs with cream cheese pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing glass of iced tea. For a hearty pairing, opt for a robust red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti.

On the side, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is always a winner, and for an extra touch, serve with a few marinated olives or a slice of Italian focaccia.

FAQs: Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese

Final Thoughts on Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly combines savory, cheesy, and satisfying flavors. This dish elevates the classic spaghetti and meatballs recipe by incorporating a rich and creamy cream cheese sauce that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing a meal for friends, or indulging in a comforting dinner after a long day, this baked spaghetti dish is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can easily swap ingredients to accommodate different tastes, dietary preferences, or even meal prep for the week. The creamy texture of the sauce pairs perfectly with the hearty meatballs, and the melted cheese on top creates an irresistible golden crust. It’s a dish that brings joy to every bite, making it a go-to recipe in your rotation.

If you enjoyed making Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cream Cheese, don’t forget to share it with friends and family. You can also explore more of our delicious recipes that offer a similar comforting experience. For example, try the creamy and indulgent Steak Alfredo Recipe, or warm up with the rich and flavorful Chicken Alfredo Soup with Beef and Parmesan Cheese and Alfredo Chicken Noodle Soup. These dishes are packed with flavor and offer a perfect complement to your meal repertoire.

So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and enjoy this decadent dish tonight!