Cheesy Monterey Spaghetti Bake 🍝🧀

This delightful dish is a twist on traditional spaghetti, combining creamy textures with rich, cheesy flavors. It's an easy-to-make meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with family and friends. The cheesy topping adds that extra touch of comfort, making this recipe a must-try! Pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal! 🥗✨

Ingredients

For the pasta base

• 4 ounces spaghetti, broken into pieces
• 1 egg
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed garlic
• 3 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 1/2 (6-ounce) can French fried onions

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.

💡 For perfect spaghetti, follow the package instructions for timing and remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and crushed garlic. Beat the egg in a separate small bowl, then add it to the mixture and blend until smooth.

3. Transfer the mixture to a greased slow cooker, then add the cooked spaghetti, 2 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, the thawed spinach, and half of the French fried onions.

🥄 Gently stir the contents until just blended to maintain a fluffy texture.

4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours.

5. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, if using low heat, turn the cooker to high and sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack cheese and French fried onions on top. Let it cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

🔥 Keep an eye on it during the last moments to prevent overcooking – you want that cheese to be perfectly melted!

Variations

• Vegetable-packed: Add your favorite veggies to the mix, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for a nutritious boost!
• Meat lover's: Mix in cooked sausage or chicken for added protein and flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some diced green chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give your dish a spicy kick! 🌶️
• Gluten-free: Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for the same creamy goodness without the gluten.

Enjoy this cheesy delight, and don't forget to share with friends and family! They won't want to miss out on this comforting dish. 🍽️❤️