Are you searching for a dinner that’s easy, comforting, and sure to please everyone at the table? Look no further than Cheesy Baked Spaghetti a mouthwatering casserole that’s both a crowd favorite and freezer-friendly! This baked spaghetti recipe brings together four types of cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles for a cozy meal that’s simple to prepare and fantastic for making ahead. If you love classic comfort food and crave leftovers that taste even better the next day, this dish is about to earn a permanent spot on your weekly meal plan.
Why You’ll Love Baked Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
This recipe is ideal for busy families who want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s wonderfully cheesy, packed with flavor, and adaptable to preferences—use beef, turkey, or Italian sausage. With just a few steps, you’ll have a filling dinner ready to bake, freeze, or share.
- Quick to Prep: Most of the work happens in one pan. Toss the cooked noodles with cheeses, add the rich meat sauce, and it’s ready for the oven!
- Freezer-Friendly: Baked spaghetti freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal planning, sharing with loved ones, or saving for busy nights.
- Family-Approved: Kids and adults (even picky eaters) love the creamy, cheesy layers and familiar Italian spices.
Ingredient Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound lean ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24-ounce jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 12 ounces thin spaghetti noodles
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup cottage cheese (or ricotta cheese, or sour cream for a lighter spin)
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
- 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: Fresh basil, salt and pepper, Italian seasoning
The blend of four cheeses (cream cheese, cottage cheese, parmesan, mozzarella) sets this casserole apart—adding creamy richness, gooey texture, and a golden-brown topping.
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by cooking the beef and onions in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the onions are tender (about 3-5 minutes), add garlic and cook another minute. Season with salt, pepper, and a dash of Italian seasoning for depth.
2. Make the Sauce:
Stir in your favorite marinara or spaghetti sauce, letting it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes to deepen the flavors.
3. Cook the Noodles:
Boil spaghetti noodles just until al dente (about 6 minutes). Reserve about one cup of the pasta water before draining—it helps the sauce cling and keeps the casserole moist.
4. Toss with Cheeses:
While noodles are hot, mix in cream cheese until it melts and coats the pasta. Add cottage cheese, half the mozzarella, and a portion of parmesan. Toss everything with the sauce until well combined.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Grease a 9×13″ baking dish, then spread the mixture inside. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan on top. Add fresh basil for a burst of flavor.
Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
How to Freeze Baked Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
For a make-ahead solution:
- Do not bake first! Let the assembled casserole cool completely after mixing.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container, add remaining cheese on top, and label.
- Freeze up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Alternatively, bake straight from frozen, adding 20–30 extra minutes (check for bubbling and golden cheese).
Recipe Tips and Variations
- For vegetarian baked spaghetti, skip the meat or swap in plant-based crumbles.
- Add extra veggies like chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for texture and nutrition.
- Substitute ricotta or sour cream for cottage cheese if desired—each brings its own flavor.
- Mix in ½ cup of reserved pasta water for a creamier sauce. If the cheese mixture feels stiff, warm with a bit more pasta water like reader Nelda Brady recommends.
Serving Suggestions
Pair baked spaghetti with a fresh green salad and homemade garlic bread for a truly comforting meal. For a next-day lunch twist, check out our super easy Cheesy Leftover Spaghetti Boats—a creative way to repurpose leftovers into a fun and portable lunch. Or, for another weeknight winner, explore our Easy Baked Ziti Recipe packed with beef, mozzarella, and a rich tomato sauce.
Common Questions & Expert Answers
- Can you bake this straight from frozen? Yes, as suggested by readers and confirmed by Jamielyn Nye, add 20–30 minutes to the baking time.
- Don’t like cottage cheese? Ricotta or sour cream both make excellent swaps that never compromise the flavor.
- Is this like lasagna? The flavors and structure are similar, but baked spaghetti is simpler, quicker, and has all the cheesy goodness you crave.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 408
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 16g
- Sodium: 731mg
- (Actual values may vary depending on chosen ingredients.)
Ready to make this baked spaghetti recipe your own?