Baked Cream Cheese Pasta

Introduction

Baked Cream Cheese Pasta is the kind of dish that brings both comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Imagine digging into a steaming plate of pasta coated in a creamy, velvety sauce made from a mix of cream cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan. The result is a comforting bowl of cheesy goodness that’s both rich and indulgent, with the added delight of a crispy, golden crust from baking. This dish is the perfect balance of creamy and cheesy, with each bite offering a warm, satisfying experience.

The first time I made Baked Cream Cheese Pasta, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to create something so delicious. The creamy sauce came together in no time, and once I added the pasta and let it bake, the smell of melted cheese filling my kitchen was irresistible. When I pulled the dish out of the oven, the golden crust was perfection, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. It quickly became one of my go-to comfort food recipes, especially when I wanted something hearty yet simple.

What I love most about Baked Cream Cheese Pasta is its versatility. You can add a variety of vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to boost the flavor and nutrition. It’s equally great for feeding a crowd at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy meal on a quiet night. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or just need an easy dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table and become a fast favorite in your recipe rotation.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Weeknight meals
• Comfort food cravings
• Potlucks or gatherings
• Cheese lovers

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Pasta Recipe

Here’s why Baked Cream Cheese Pasta will become your go-to recipe:

• Creamy and Rich Sauce: The cream cheese gives the sauce a velvety, creamy texture that coats every bite of pasta.
• Golden, Crispy Top: The baking process creates a delightful, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
• Cheesy Goodness: With layers of mozzarella and parmesan, this dish is a cheese lover’s dream come true.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its luxurious flavor, this pasta dish is easy to prepare, with minimal ingredients and prep time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for later, making it perfect for busy nights or meal prepping.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 14g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 22g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Baked Cream Cheese Pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work best)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cream Cheese: Adds a rich, creamy base for the sauce that elevates the flavor and texture of the dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The mozzarella adds meltiness and a stretchy, gooey texture that’s essential in a baked pasta dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan provides a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the cream cheese and mozzarella perfectly.
• Heavy Cream: This creates a luxurious sauce that brings everything together with its rich, smooth consistency.
• Diced Tomatoes: The tomatoes add a subtle tang and balance out the richness of the cream and cheese, providing a well-rounded flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Baked Cream Cheese Pasta:

Prepare the Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

2. Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the pan and stir until it begins to melt and become smooth.
4. Add the Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined with the cream cheese, creating a smooth sauce.
5. Add the Cheeses: Stir in the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
6. Season the Sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Combine the Pasta and Sauce:

7. Mix Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce and stir until each piece is coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
8. Add Diced Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the pasta and sauce.

Bake the Pasta:

9. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the creamy pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
10. Top with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta for an extra cheesy crust.
11. Bake the Pasta: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve:

12. Garnish and Serve: Once the pasta is done baking, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve hot.

How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Pasta

This recipe can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Main Course: This rich and hearty pasta is perfect on its own as a main dish for dinner.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-balanced meal.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli for a nutritious side.
• As Part of a Pasta Feast: Serve this baked pasta alongside other pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna for a full Italian-inspired feast.
• With Wine: Pair with a light white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, to complement the creamy flavors of the dish.
• For Family Dinners: This pasta is great for feeding a large group or family, making it perfect for a casual meal.
• With Parmesan Sprinkle: After baking, sprinkle more parmesan on top before serving for an added layer of flavor.
• In Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, serve in individual baking dishes or ramekins.
• As Leftovers: Leftover baked pasta can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal the next day.

Additional Tips for Baked Cream Cheese Pasta

Here are some tips to make your Baked Cream Cheese Pasta even better:

• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese provides a creamier, richer texture, making the sauce smoother.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the sauce, make sure it’s al dente before you combine it with the sauce to avoid mushy pasta.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Customize the Cheeses: Feel free to use different cheeses like gouda, cheddar, or provolone for unique flavors.
• Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef for a heartier dish.
• Make it Healthier: Use whole wheat pasta, light cream cheese, and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.

Recipe Variations for Baked Cream Cheese Pasta

Here are 10 variations of Baked Cream Cheese Pasta to try:

• Chicken Baked Cream Cheese Pasta: Add cooked, shredded chicken for a protein-packed variation.
• Vegetarian Baked Cream Cheese Pasta: Add your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a hearty, meat-free version.
• Spicy Baked Cream Cheese Pasta: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Baked Cream Cheese Pasta with Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits to the sauce for a smoky, savory flavor.
• Pesto Baked Cream Cheese Pasta: Stir in some pesto sauce with the cream cheese for an herbaceous twist.
• Baked Cream Cheese Pasta with Sausage: Add cooked sausage for a flavorful, meaty version of this dish.
• Cheesy Garlic Baked Cream Cheese Pasta: Increase the garlic flavor by adding fresh garlic cloves to the sauce.
• Baked Cream Cheese Pasta with Spinach: Stir in some cooked spinach for a healthy, green addition.
• Baked Cream Cheese Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, Mediterranean flair.
• Baked Cream Cheese Pasta with Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, umami flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This baked pasta freezes well. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover baked pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Special Equipment for Baked Cream Cheese Pasta

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Baked Cream Cheese Pasta easier:

• Large Pot: For cooking the pasta.
• Large Saucepan: To make the creamy sauce.
• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: Perfect for baking and serving this hearty dish.
• Whisk: To help combine the cream cheese and heavy cream into a smooth sauce.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and pasta together.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients for the sauce and seasonings.

FAQ Section for Baked Cream Cheese Pasta

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or ziti. Just be sure to cook it al dente.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare this pasta in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze Baked Cream Cheese Pasta?
   Yes, this pasta can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just bake it, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container before freezing.
4. Can I use light cream cheese for this recipe?
   Yes, you can substitute light cream cheese, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.

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Conclusion

This recipe is a comforting, cheesy, and creamy dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With a luscious, velvety sauce and a crispy, cheesy topping, this baked pasta is perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and absolutely delicious, it’s a dish that will satisfy both your cravings and your guests. Give this recipe a try, and indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness that is Baked Cream Cheese Pasta!

I can’t wait to see how you bring this creamy dish to life! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your version. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts on the recipe. Happy cooking!