Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a warm, comforting dish that brings together tender spaghetti noodles, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a touch of Southern charm. It’s a perfect blend of pasta, cheese, and a hint of spices that make every bite cozy and satisfying. If you like pasta casseroles that are hearty and full of flavor, this one will quickly become a favorite.
I love how easy this spaghetti bake comes together and how versatile it is. You can add in your favorite proteins like cooked chicken or sausage, or keep it simple with just cheese and herbs. For me, the creamy sauce is the real star—it sticks to every strand of spaghetti and gives the whole dish a smooth, comforting taste that feels like a big, warm hug.
This dish is great for family dinners or even potlucks because it’s easy to make ahead and reheat without losing its creamy goodness. I like to serve it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread to balance out the richness. It’s one of those meals that everyone seems to enjoy, and I always feel proud when I bring it to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works best here and holds the sauce nicely, but feel free to swap in linguine or fettuccine if you prefer a broader noodle.
Ground meat: Ground beef or sausage add heartiness, but you can skip them for a vegetarian version or use ground turkey for a leaner option.
Cream cheese & sour cream: These create the creamy texture. If you’re avoiding dairy, try vegan cream cheese and coconut yogurt or cashew cream as a substitute.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella provide both sharp and melty cheese layers. If cheddar is too strong, mild white cheddar or Monterey Jack are smooth options.
Spices: The smoked paprika and cayenne add Southern warmth and a little kick. You can leave out cayenne for milder flavor or replace smoked paprika with regular paprika.
How Do You Get the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
The key is blending the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth before mixing with the spaghetti. This prevents lumps and ensures every bite is creamy.
- Soften cream cheese fully at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Use a whisk or fork to beat cream cheese and sour cream together until silky.
- Add this mixture gently to the hot sauce and pasta—fold everything carefully to coat all noodles.
- Don’t overmix once combined to avoid breaking noodles and making the sauce gummy.
Bake uncovered just long enough to melt cheese on top and heat through without drying out the creamy layers underneath. A 25-30 minute bake is perfect.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the spaghetti evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet – great for cooking the meat and sauce all in one pan.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the cream cheese and sour cream smoothly.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – roomy enough for layering and baking the spaghetti bake.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring the sauce and folding in ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for spicy chorizo to add a smoky, zesty flavor.
- Mix in chopped cooked spinach or kale for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Try pepper jack cheese for a bit of a spicy kick in the creamy sauce.
- Add sliced mushrooms or sautéed bell peppers to increase the veggie content and texture.
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage (optional for added protein)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a Southern spicy kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Other:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and cook the pasta and meat, plus 25–30 minutes to bake. Overall, expect to spend about 45 minutes from start to finish, including resting time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta and Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
If you’re using ground beef or sausage, add it to the skillet now and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Sauce and Spices:
Pour in the marinara or spaghetti sauce. Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend all the flavors.
3. Mix Creamy Cheese Layer:
In a medium bowl, blend together softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Spaghetti Bake:
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mix and toss to coat the noodles evenly. Spread half of this spaghetti mixture into the greased baking dish. Dollop half of the cream cheese and sour cream mixture on top and gently spread it out. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over this layer.
Repeat with the remaining spaghetti, cream cheese mixture, and cheddar cheese. Finally, top everything with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden. Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, then serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, comforting Southern-style spaghetti bake!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package directions, as cooking times can vary. Drain carefully to avoid breaking the noodles before mixing with the sauce.
Can I Make This Spaghetti Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake up to the point before baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover spaghetti bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in cooked spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers when stirring the sauce and spaghetti together for extra flavor and nutrition.
