This cheesy Monterey spaghetti bake is a delightful fusion of comfort and elegance that brings a creamy, cheesy, and slightly crispy texture to your table. The dish draws inspiration from traditional Italian pasta bakes, incorporating Monterey Jack cheese for a distinctive American twist. With its luscious cheese sauce enveloping al dente spaghetti, this dish is perfect for those who crave a rich and satisfying meal, ideal for family dinners or potlucks.

This cheesy Monterey spaghetti bake pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in vinegar and olive oil, which provides a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the dish. Garlic bread is another excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the cheesy, delicious sauce. To turn the meal into a grander spread, you might also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a hearty tomato-basil soup.

Servings: 6

12 oz spaghetti
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute, making a roux.

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the Monterey Jack cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Combine the cooked spaghetti and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.

Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the spaghetti.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

For a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. If you'd like to incorporate some protein, cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits can be mixed in before baking. For a vegetarian version, stir in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach. This dish also works well with gluten-free pasta if you're catering to dietary restrictions.

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