This Spaghetti Sausage Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti, savory Italian sausage, rich marinara sauce, and a creamy cheese mixture come together to create a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Topped with gooey mozzarella cheese and baked to golden perfection, this casserole is a family favorite that’s sure to disappear fast. Follow the steps below to make this delicious recipe, and don’t forget to check out the tips and serving suggestions for the best results!
Ingredients
For the Casserole
1 pound uncooked spaghetti
1 pound Italian sausage (see note)
½ medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 (24 oz) jars marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Layer
8 oz cream cheese (1 block), softened
8 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and move the rack to the top third of the oven.
In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano. Stir until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti for 2 minutes less than the package directions suggest. Drain and return the pasta to the pot.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage Mixture
In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage and onion, breaking the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute. Remove excess fat from the skillet.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Add the sausage mixture to the pot with the cooked spaghetti. Pour in the marinara sauce and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish in an even layer.
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta layer.
Top with the remaining pasta mixture, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown (watch closely to prevent burning).
Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Use a spatula to cut into portions and season with salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.
Tips for Success
Sausage Options: Use ground sausage or remove the casings from sausage links.
Softening Cream Cheese: Microwave the cream cheese for 20–30 seconds to soften it quickly.
Customize the Cheese Layer: Feel free to swap or add other cheeses like provolone or fontina.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutritional Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: ~500 kcal per serving
Servings: 8
Nutrition
Calories: 742kcal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 119mg | Sodium: 1799mg | Potassium: 949mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 10g | Vitamin A: 1639IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 393mg | Iron: 4mg
Enjoy this Spaghetti Sausage Casserole—it’s a cheesy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
