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Creamy Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Easy and Delicious with Cream Cheese

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A rich and creamy spaghetti casserole made with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and a comforting mushroom soup base. Perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners, this casserole combines simple pantry staples into a delicious, cheesy baked dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 pound ground beef, cooked and drained (optional)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: extra shredded cheddar or crushed buttery crackers

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of spaghetti and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add 1 small chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup, and 1/4 cup milk. Stir until smooth and creamy. Use a hand mixer if lumps persist.
  4. Add the cooked spaghetti and meat mixture to the creamy base. Stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly to coat all noodles evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar or crushed buttery crackers on top for a crunchy crust.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown and edges start to crisp.
  7. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to set before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; al dente noodles hold up better during baking. Let cream cheese soften to avoid lumps. Drain cooked ground beef well to prevent greasiness. Let casserole rest after baking to thicken sauce and improve serving. Optional variations include using ground turkey, sautéed vegetables for vegetarian, or gluten-free pasta and soup. Slow cooker adaptation possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti casserole, creamy casserole, cream cheese recipe, easy dinner, family dinner, baked spaghetti, comfort food

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