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Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Avatar photoByJasmine
Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 115 reviews

If you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and just downright comforting, you’re going to love this Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe. I’ve made a ton of pasta bakes in my time, but this one stands out with its luscious blend of creamy Alfredo sauce, hearty meatiness, and that golden, bubbly cheese on top. Seriously, it’s like all your favorite flavors put on their Sunday best. Stick around, I promise you’ll want to make this over and over.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Incredibly Creamy Texture: The combo of heavy cream and parmesan cheese makes this bake irresistibly smooth and rich.
  • Perfectly Balanced Flavors: A hint of Cajun seasoning brings a subtle kick that wakes up traditional Italian flavors.
  • Family Favorite: My kids can’t get enough of this, and it’s a win even for picky eaters.
  • Easy to Make Ahead: Great for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings with a little prep in advance.
A white rectangular baking dish holds a layered casserole with three clear layers visible. The bottom layer is a mix of cooked spaghetti noodles coated in a reddish-orange sauce with ground meat scattered throughout. The middle layer is the same mix as the bottom, appearing a bit thicker and more saucy. The top layer is a thick, even coat of melted white cheese with hints of browned spots and small green herb sprinkles, likely parsley, spread across its surface. A silver spoon is scooping out a portion from the front left corner, revealing the layers inside. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake, Italian pasta bake with Alfredo sauce, cheesy baked spaghetti recipe, hearty pasta casserole, easy pasta bake dinner this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe brings together everyday staples with a few flavorful seasonings that elevate it from simple spaghetti to a creamy, dreamy bake. When you shop, look for quality parmesan and a fresh jar of marinara to really make it shine.

Flat lay of cooked al dente spaghetti noodles neatly twirled, a mound of fresh ground beef crumbles, a small white ceramic bowl of finely diced white onion, a small white ceramic bowl with finely diced green bell pepper, a small white ceramic bowl with golden unsalted butter cubes, four whole uncracked garlic cloves, a small white ceramic bowl of rich red marinara sauce, a small white ceramic bowl of heavy cream, a small white ceramic bowl of shredded parmesan cheese, a small white ceramic bowl of shredded mozzarella cheese, a small white ceramic bowl with a mix of dried herbs and spices including cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and a small white ceramic bowl of dried parsley flakes placed symmetrically around the ingredients, all components fresh and natural, simple white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging, perfect proportion and balance -- all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake, Italian pasta bake with Alfredo sauce, cheesy baked spaghetti recipe, hearty pasta casserole, easy pasta bake dinner
  • Spaghetti noodles: Cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy after baking.
  • Ground beef: Use lean or medium-fat depending on your preference for richness.
  • Small onion: Finely diced to blend nicely with the meat mixture.
  • Green bell pepper: Adds a nice pop of color and subtle sweetness.
  • Cajun seasoning: Brings just the right amount of smoky heat—don’t skip this!
  • Garlic powder & onion powder: Layered flavors that round out the meat sauce.
  • Dried Italian seasoning: Classic herb mix for that familiar aroma.
  • Marinara sauce: Go for a flavorful jar or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
  • Unsalted butter: The base for the creamy Alfredo sauce—melts into silky perfection.
  • Fresh garlic cloves: Minced to fragrance the butter for that extra garlic punch.
  • Heavy cream: This is key to making that sauce ultrarich and velvety.
  • Shredded parmesan cheese: Makes the sauce cheesy and helps it thicken.
  • Kosher salt & black pepper: To season everything perfectly.
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty topping everyone adores.
  • Dried parsley flakes (optional): A touch of color and freshness when sprinkled on top.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love tweaking this Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe depending on what I have on hand or the mood we’re in. The base is forgiving, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!

  • Spicy Kick: I sometimes add crushed red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a little extra heat—it’s a hit with friends who like spice.
  • Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even lentils for a hearty meatless option.
  • Cheese Variations: Mixing in some asiago or fontina cheese alongside parmesan ups the fancy factor without extra fuss.
  • Herb Freshness: Fresh basil or thyme instead of dried parsley makes it feel vibrant and fresh on warmer days.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta

First things first: cook your spaghetti noodles until just al dente—meaning they still have a little bite. I learned this the hard way after overcooking the pasta before, which ended up mushy after baking. Drain and set aside, but don’t rinse; that starchy coating helps the sauce cling better later on.

Step 2: Make the Flavorful Meat Sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium-high and brown the ground beef with diced onion and bell pepper. I like to let the onions soften fully, about 10 minutes, so you get that sweet mellow base. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning for layers of flavor. After draining excess grease, add the marinara sauce and let it simmer on low for 15 minutes—this is when the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

While the meat sauce simmers, melt butter in a dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Toss in minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown or it gets bitter. Pour in the heavy cream, sprinkle in your parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to a velvety texture—this sauce is what makes the creamy Parmesan spaghetti bake recipe truly shine.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble the Bake

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the Alfredo sauce and stir until every strand is luxuriously coated. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish. Then spoon the simmering meat sauce evenly over the top—you’ll love how those rich layers stack up.

Step 5: Cheese It and Bake

Cover the top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of extra parmesan. Bake uncovered at 350°F for about 15 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and beautifully bubbly. If you’re like me, you might find it hard to wait for that first cheesy bite!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

A quick sprinkle of dried parsley flakes adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. Serve this creamy Parmesan spaghetti bake recipe straight from the oven with confidence—you’re in for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

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Pro Tips for Making Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe

  • Don’t Overcook Your Pasta: Always cook the spaghetti just al dente because it will keep cooking in the oven.
  • Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce texture than pre-shredded.
  • Simmer Meat Sauce Gently: Low and slow simmering really brings out those deep flavors without reducing it too much.
  • Avoid Burning the Garlic: Cook minced garlic just briefly in butter for fragrance without bitterness.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe

This image shows a close-up of a white oval baking dish filled with spaghetti in a rich red tomato sauce, topped with a thick layer of melted white cheese sprinkled with green herbs. A woman's hand is lifting a portion of the spaghetti with a white fork, pulling up long strands of pasta covered in the sauce and cheese. The cheese layer looks smooth and creamy with hints of golden brown. The white marbled surface underneath the baking dish adds brightness to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake, Italian pasta bake with Alfredo sauce, cheesy baked spaghetti recipe, hearty pasta casserole, easy pasta bake dinner

Garnishes

I like finishing mine with a sprinkle of dried parsley flakes for color, but sometimes I go all out with fresh basil leaves or even a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to boost aroma and freshness. A little cracked black pepper on top never hurts either!

Side Dishes

This bake pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp Caesar salad or roasted garlic broccoli. Sometimes I serve warm garlic bread on the side to sop up all those luscious sauces—it’s always a hit.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try baking individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or ramekins—they look adorable and make serving effortless. You can also swirl in some sun-dried tomatoes or caramelized onions on top before baking for a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually pop any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making the next meal taste just as amazing with minimal effort.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well! Just let it cool completely, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When I’ve done this, the bake retains its creamy texture beautifully after reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming it in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out—about 20 minutes should do. Alternatively, the microwave works in a pinch; just add a splash of cream or milk and cover to keep it moist.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this bake?

    Definitely! While spaghetti works perfectly, you can swap in penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so the pasta is al dente before baking since some shapes hold sauce differently.

  2. Is it possible to make this Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe vegetarian?

    Yes! Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or cooked lentils. You can even add some chopped spinach for extra nutrients. The creamy sauce will keep it satisfying without the meat.

  3. How can I make this recipe less rich or lower in calories?

    Try using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly. You can also swap mozzarella for part-skim varieties and use lean ground turkey instead of beef to keep things lighter but still flavorful.

  4. Can I prepare this recipe ahead and bake later?

    Absolutely. Assemble the bake fully, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining with less stress on the day of.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe has become such a comfort food staple in my home. I remember the first time I made it—my family kept going back for seconds and even thirds! What I adore most is how it brings together simple pantry ingredients into something that feels indulgent without being complicated. If you try just one pasta bake this week, make it this one. You’ll thank me later!

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Creamy Parmesan Spaghetti Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 115 reviews
  • Author: Jasmine
  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 75 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Million Dollar Spaghetti is a rich and creamy baked pasta dish featuring al dente spaghetti noodles coated in luscious homemade Alfredo sauce, layered with a flavorful Cajun-seasoned ground beef marinara, and topped with a blend of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. This crowd-pleasing casserole combines bold seasoning and creamy textures, making it a perfect indulgent weeknight dinner that’s impressive yet easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Spaghetti

  • 16 ounces (1 pound) spaghetti noodles (cooked al dente)

Meat Sauce

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 24 ounces jar marinara sauce

Alfredo Sauce

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons shredded parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside. Begin cooking the spaghetti noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Cook Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, diced green bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Break up the beef with a spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no longer pink and the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
  3. Simmer Meat Sauce: Drain excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the marinara sauce. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
  4. Prepare Alfredo Sauce: While the meat sauce simmers, melt the butter in a dutch oven or large stock pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a smooth Alfredo sauce.
  5. Combine Pasta with Alfredo Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the Alfredo sauce and stir well to coat the noodles completely in the creamy sauce.
  6. Assemble Casserole: Pour the Alfredo coated spaghetti into the prepared baking dish. Spread the meat sauce evenly over the top of the noodles.
  7. Add Cheese Topping and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese followed by shredded parmesan cheese over the meat sauce layer. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle dried parsley flakes over the top if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your rich, cheesy Million Dollar Spaghetti.

Notes

  • This recipe is beloved for its rich, creamy sauces and hearty layers, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks.
  • The combination of Cajun seasoning and Italian herbs adds a delicious depth of flavor to the meat sauce.
  • Using freshly minced garlic in the Alfredo sauce enhances the aroma and overall taste dramatically.
  • For a lighter version, consider substituting half-and-half for heavy cream, though it will affect the richness and thickness of the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 887 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 1244 mg
  • Fat: 59 g
  • Saturated Fat: 33 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Cholesterol: 183 mg
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Hey there, I’m Jasmine Miller, the foodie behind JmRecipes.com! I’m on a mission to make cooking COOOL and GOOOOD for everyone, sharing easy, fun, and totally scrumptious recipes, so grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

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