This Monterey Spaghetti is a creamy baked pasta casserole that brings comfort and simplicity to the table. Made with tender spaghetti, tangy sour cream, melty Monterey Jack cheese, and a crispy onion topping, it’s the kind of dish that feels nostalgic, filling, and family-friendly. Whether served as a hearty side or a light main, it delivers rich flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and bakes into a warm, satisfying casserole that appeals to both kids and adults. The combination of creamy cheese, mild spinach, and crunchy onions creates a balanced texture in every bite. It’s also a great make-ahead option for busy days and reheats beautifully without drying out.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 ounces dry 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
• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly drained
• 1 can (2.8 ounces) french-fried onions, divided

Directions

Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg until smooth. Add the sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder, and mix until fully combined.

Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl along with the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, drained spinach, and half of the french-fried onions. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through.

Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining french-fried onions evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings as a side dish or 2 to 3 servings as a light main dish.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes, baking time is 35 minutes, and total time from start to finish is approximately 45 minutes.

Variations

For a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy mixture before baking.
For extra vegetables, stir in sautéed mushrooms or finely chopped roasted red peppers.
For a richer flavor, substitute part of the sour cream with cream cheese, softened and blended until smooth.

Storage/Reheating

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Cover the baking dish tightly or transfer the spaghetti to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat individual portions, warm in the microwave in short intervals until heated through. For larger portions, reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes. If the top begins to brown too much, loosely tent with foil.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or elbow pasta work well and hold the creamy sauce nicely.

Do I need to drain the spinach well?

Yes, removing excess moisture from the spinach is essential to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is this recipe suitable for children?

Yes, the mild cheese and creamy texture make it very kid-friendly.

Can I use low-fat sour cream?

Low-fat sour cream works, but avoid fat-free versions as they may affect the texture.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 2-quart baking dish is ideal for even cooking and proper thickness.

Can I freeze Monterey Spaghetti?

Yes, you can freeze it tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I keep the onions crispy?

Add the final layer of onions near the end of baking so they stay golden and crunchy.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in a larger dish, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Does this work as a main dish?

It can be served as a light main, especially when paired with a fresh salad or vegetables.

Conclusion

Monterey Spaghetti is a comforting, creamy casserole that fits perfectly into a busy routine while still feeling special. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and plenty of room for customization, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll come back to whenever you need something warm, satisfying, and family-approved.

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