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Monterey Spaghetti

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Monterey Spaghetti is a baked pasta casserole made with spaghetti, hearty meat sauce, and melty Monterey Jack cheese. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for family meals or potlucks.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
  6. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce in a large bowl and toss to coat.
  7. Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  8. Top evenly with Monterey Jack cheese and optional cheddar cheese.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for extra flavor.Swap ground beef for turkey or Italian sausage for variation.Use pepper jack for a spicier version.To make ahead, assemble and refrigerate before baking.Cover loosely with foil if baking longer to prevent drying out.

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