Monterey Spaghetti
Monterey Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring spinach, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan, topped with crispy fried onions. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers comforting flavors with a delightful crunch and rich texture that appeals to cheese lovers and spinach fans alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions and drain.
- In a medium bowl, beat the egg.
- Add sour cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder to the egg and mix well.
- Add the cooked spaghetti, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, thawed and drained spinach, and half of the French fried onions to the egg mixture. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, top with the remaining French fried onions, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra egg or a splash of milk to the mixture. If you can't find Monterey Jack cheese, substitute with mild cheddar for a similar flavor. To reduce calories, you can use low-fat sour cream. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the dish's flavor. For a twist, incorporate cooked chicken or sautéed mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This Monterey Spaghetti pairs beautifully with a side of Creamed Green Beans And Potatoes or a simple salad for a complete meal. Serve it with garlic bread on the side for added comfort. For a festive touch, top with fresh chopped parsley before serving, which adds a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monterey Spaghetti contains roughly 344 calories, with 12g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh spinach! Sauté it lightly in olive oil until wilted, then chop and add it to the mixture. Fresh spinach will give the dish a vibrant taste and color, making it even more appealing.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Monterey Spaghetti is a great option for vegetarian recipes, packed with cheese and spinach. Just ensure that your Parmesan cheese is rennet-free if you're serving strict vegetarians.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).