Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Spoon the strawberry pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
Evenly sprinkle the dry yellow cake mix over the strawberry pie filling. Do not stir; just let it sit on top.
Drizzle the melted butter over the cake mix, ensuring all areas are covered.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream if desired.