Monterey Spaghetti is a delightful, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a comforting meal. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for you to try:
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for some heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the pepper is softened.
- If using, add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Mix the Creamy Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in the chicken broth, diced green chilies, salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Combine Everything:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the vegetables (and chicken, if using). Pour the creamy soup mixture over the top and mix until the spaghetti is well coated.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Monterey Jack cheese and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Enjoy your Monterey Spaghetti hot, and savor the creamy, cheesy goodness!