Print

Monterey Spaghetti

Print Recipe

Monterey Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta casserole made with tender spaghetti, spinach, sour cream, Parmesan, Monterey Jack cheese, and crispy French-fried onions. It’s an easy vegetarian dinner or comforting side dish with plenty of cheesy flavor.

Ingredients

  • 4 ounces spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 package (10 ounces) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
  • 1 can (2.8 ounces) French-fried onions, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder until smooth.
  4. Stir in the cooked spaghetti, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and drained spinach until evenly combined.
  5. Fold in about half of the French-fried onions.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining French-fried onions over the top and return the dish to the oven for 5 minutes, until the onions are golden and crisp.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Squeeze the thawed spinach very well to remove excess moisture and prevent a watery casserole.
  • For the best texture, cook the spaghetti just until tender since it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Freshly shredded Monterey Jack melts especially smoothly.
  • Add a pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes for a little extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat until hot.

Find it online: https://ayoubrecipe.com/monterey-spaghetti/