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Monterey Spaghetti Bake – Creamy Cheesy Family Favorite

A creamy, cheesy spaghetti casserole layered with savory ground beef, rich sauce, and melted cheese — perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

Spaghetti Bake
  • 12 oz spaghetti uncooked
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper or to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • 9x13 baking dish
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  2. Cook spaghetti until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned.
  4. Season beef with paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  5. In a bowl, whisk sour cream, cream cheese, and milk until smooth.
  6. Combine spaghetti, beef mixture, and creamy sauce; toss well.
  7. Transfer to baking dish and top with cheeses.
  8. Bake 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Optional: broil 2 minutes for golden crust. Garnish and serve.

Notes

For a creamier bake, add extra milk or heavy cream. Use leftover cooked meat or rotisserie chicken for convenience.