Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Remove sauce from heat and stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the cheese sauce, mixing thoroughly.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese or bacon bits if desired.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving garnished with fresh herbs.
Notes
- For an extra flavor boost, add sautéed onions or bell peppers.
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
- Prepare the dish a day ahead and bake before serving for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Baking, sauce preparation, pasta cooking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Comfort Food, Kid-Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 95mg