Cheesy baked spaghetti is ultimate comfort food made with spaghetti tossed in an easy to make cheese sauce then baked until golden brown and bubbly.
From the recipe collection of Tara Ippolito
This cheesy baked spaghetti is the easy to make, crowd pleasing meal that you are going go love. I think even more than my kids.It’s cheesy, creamy and out of this world delicious. It’s a true comfort food recipe in every sense.Not to mention, it couldn’t be easier to make, too. It’s the perfect meal to make for a busy weekday dinner.
We usually make this in the cooler months when my family is craving something warm and comforting. Adults love it, kids love it and everyone will be going back for second’s.I really hope you give this recipe a try. If you do, I know you’ll love it just as much as my family and I do.
Ingredients
Heres what you'll need to make this delicious cheesy spaghetti. You can find the full ingredients list along with measurements and instructions on the recipe card below.
- Butter- Adds lots of richness and flavor to the sauce.
- Velveeta- The star of the show! This melts into the perfect smooth consistency will bringing lots of cheese flavor.
- Evaporated Milk- Adds moisture to prevent the sauce from drying out when baking and keeps the sauce smooth.
- Spaghetti- The perfect pasta to soak up and cling to the delicious cheese sauce.
- Salt- Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
- Pepper- Cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Garlic Powder- Ands a subtle warmth throughout the dish.
- Cheddar Cheese- Adds a salty, gooey and cheese flavor and texture to the pasta that compliments the Velveeta perfectly.
- Dried Parsley-An optional garnish that adds a pop of color.
Instructions
Heres how to make this super easy and delicious pasta. You can find the full ingredients list along with instructions on the recipe card below.
Preheat the oven to 350°
First, in a large skillet, heat the butter over medium high heat until it’s melted and pour in the evaporated milk. Add the Velveeta and season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Stir everything together until the Velveeta is melted into the sauce.
PRO TIP: Be sure to cube the Velveeta before adding it to the skillet to allow it to melt easily and evenly.
Then, add the spaghetti and toss it into the sauce until the pasta is evenly coated. And add it to a greased 9 x 13” baking dish. Smooth it out until the pasta is even and sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese.
NOTE: Be sure to only cook the spaghetti to al dente because it will cook more when its in the oven. That way the pasta wont turn to mush.
Then, place it into the center rack of the oven, covered for 20 minutes. Carefully take the cover off and leave it in the over for another 5 minutes. Finally, cook for 5 minutes and sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley (optional) and enjoy!
PRO TIP: Be sure to shred the cheese yourself and avoid the pre shredded stuff that comes in a bag. It will melt melt much better that way.
PRO TIP: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken and set. This way it won't be too runny and cling to the spaghetti.
What Other Kinds Of Pasta Can I Use?
Any medium to large pasta would work here but a long one like spaghetti, linguine of even angel hair is perferred.
Do I Really Have To Use Velveeta?
Velveeta melts into the sauce perfectly and keeps it smooth and silky. Its highly recommended but and equal amount of shredded cheddar cheese would be ok to use, too
Can I Add In Some Protein Or Vegetables?
Yes, you absolutely can add some cooked chicken and broccoli into this baked spaghetti if you'd like to.
Storage
Place it into an air tight container and it will last in the fridge for up to three days.
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Equipment
- 9" x 13" baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 Stick Butter
- 12 Oz Evaporated Milk
- 16 Oz Velveeta, cut into cubes
- 1 Pound Spaghetti, cooked to al dente
- 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese, hand shredded
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
- 1 Tbs Garlic Powder
- 3 Tbs Dried Parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium high heat and pour in the evaporated milk.
- Add the velveeta and season it with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Stir everything together until the Velveeta is melted into the sauce.
- Add the spaghetti and toss it into the sauce until the pasta is evenly coated and add it to a greased 9 x 13" baking dish.
- Smooth it out until the pasta is even and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Place it into the center rack of the oven, covered for 20 minutes.
- Carefully take the cover off and leave it in the over for another 5 minutes.
- Finally, let it cook for 5 minutes and let is rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley (optional) and enjoy!
Other Easy Pasta Recipes
If you like super easy to make pasta recipes like this one, you have to try Marry Me Pasta, Easy Alfredo Sauce and The Best Vodka Sauce.
Al Dente Diva says
I’m so glad to hear that
Anonymous says
This is like a mac and cheese but with spaghetti! This did not disappoint.