Spaghetti And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy spaghetti baked to perfection with fresh vegetables and a flavorful sauce, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in flour until well combined.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to make a smooth sauce.
- Add salt, diced onion, chopped green pepper, and diced celery to the sauce.
- Cook and stir until the sauce is creamy and the cheese has melted.
- Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked spaghetti.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle paprika on top of the spaghetti.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. You can substitute the green pepper with red bell pepper for a sweeter taste, or use frozen mixed vegetables if you're short on fresh produce. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the flavor. This dish is versatile and can be customized like Sensational Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Spaghetti And Cheese with a side salad for a complete meal, or pair it with crusty garlic bread for a comforting dinner. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil adds a fresh touch. For an indulgent dessert, consider ending the meal with Bavarian Pie, which balances the richness of the main dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spaghetti in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also bake it at 350°F for about 15 minutes, adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Cheese contains roughly 857 calories, with 23g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2133mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
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 make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free spaghetti and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce. Just make sure to check the labels of all your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
For the best flavor, use a combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Cheddar adds a rich, tangy flavor, while mozzarella gives a nice stretch and creaminess. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for different flavor profiles.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! To make it more filling, consider adding cooked chicken, ground beef, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Mixing in cooked bacon or ham also complements the flavors well. Just add them into the cheese sauce before combining with the spaghetti.
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).