Monterey Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, and flavorful seasonings. This comforting casserole-style meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner and easy to prepare ahead of time.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
3. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 ½ cups Monterey Jack cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, pepper, paprika, and milk. Mix until well combined.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce mixture, tossing to coat evenly.
6. Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrients

• Calories: 480 per serving
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 580mg

The Flavor Profile of Monterey Spaghetti

Monterey Spaghetti stands out due to its rich and comforting flavor profile. The Monterey Jack cheese gives it a mild, buttery taste that melts beautifully into the sauce. The combination of sour cream and cream of mushroom soup provides a tangy, creamy consistency that complements the tender spaghetti noodles. Parmesan cheese adds a slightly nutty, salty kick that enhances the overall depth of flavor.

The seasonings—oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper—add warmth and complexity, giving this dish a well-balanced taste without overpowering the cheesy, creamy base. The sautéed onions and garlic provide an aromatic depth that infuses the sauce with extra savory notes. Each ingredient works harmoniously to create a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth pasta dish that’s both rich and satisfying.

Why Monterey Spaghetti is a Great Make-Ahead Dish

One of the best things about Monterey Spaghetti is its versatility as a make-ahead meal. Since it’s a baked casserole, you can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

For meal prep, the assembled dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. If freezing, wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Having a delicious, ready-to-go meal in the freezer ensures you always have a comforting dinner option on hand without the stress of last-minute cooking.

How to Customize Monterey Spaghetti

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing for a variety of substitutions and additions to suit different dietary needs and taste preferences. If you want to add more protein, cooked chicken, ground beef, or crumbled sausage can be mixed into the sauce before baking. These additions enhance the heartiness of the dish, making it even more filling.

For a vegetarian variation, mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers can be added to provide more texture and flavor. If you prefer a lighter version, swapping out sour cream for Greek yogurt and using reduced-fat cheese can cut down on calories while maintaining the creamy consistency.

Different cheese options can also be used to change up the flavor. While Monterey Jack is the signature cheese in this dish, cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda can be used for a different twist. Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving gives the dish a bit of spice, making it ideal for those who enjoy a little heat.

The Best Sides to Serve with Monterey Spaghetti

Although Monterey Spaghetti is satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a warm baguette complements the creamy sauce, perfect for scooping up every last bit from the plate.

Steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini, provide a healthy contrast to the cheesy pasta. A side of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions can further enhance the umami flavors in the dish. For an added protein boost, grilled or baked chicken pairs beautifully with this creamy spaghetti.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, Monterey Spaghetti stores well and can be easily reheated for another meal. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, you can use the microwave for a quick option or warm it up in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to maintain the best texture.

If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the spaghetti into individual servings and store them in freezer-safe containers. This allows for convenient grab-and-go meals whenever you need a quick and comforting dish. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming in the oven or microwave.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Monterey Spaghetti is a perfect blend of cheesy, creamy, and savory flavors that make it an instant family favorite. Its simple preparation and baked casserole style make it easy to serve for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The combination of Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, and flavorful seasonings sets it apart from traditional spaghetti dishes, offering a unique and comforting alternative.

This recipe also allows for customization, making it easy to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether adding protein, vegetables, or experimenting with different cheeses, you can personalize Monterey Spaghetti to create the perfect dish for you and your family. Plus, its make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature makes it an excellent meal prep option for busy schedules.

Conclusion

Monterey Spaghetti is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting pasta dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The rich combination of Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, and seasonings creates a deliciously indulgent sauce that pairs perfectly with tender spaghetti noodles. Whether served fresh out of the oven or prepared ahead of time for a stress-free meal, this baked spaghetti dish is sure to become a household favorite.

With its simple ingredients, customizable options, and easy storage, Monterey Spaghetti is a versatile recipe that delivers both convenience and amazing flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this dish provides a satisfying and delicious option that will leave everyone coming back for more.