Today, I am going to make the Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese, a comforting and cheesy dish that combines the best of two beloved classics: spaghetti and mac and cheese. This creamy, indulgent casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleasing side dish.

What is Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese?

The Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese is a delightful blend of cooked spaghetti tossed in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden. This dish is a comforting twist on traditional mac and cheese, offering the familiar flavors of cheesy pasta in a new form.

Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese Recipe

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Comfort Food: A delicious blend of spaghetti and cheese that is perfect for satisfying cravings.
Kid-Friendly: A hit with children and adults alike.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to all.

Versatile: Serve as a main dish or a side dish.
Make-Ahead: This can be prepared in advance and baked when needed.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.

Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese

1 pound spaghetti
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese

Cook the spaghetti: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.

Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Season the sauce: Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir to combine.

Combine spaghetti and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.
Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese

Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread.
Green Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Roasted Vegetables: Complement with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers.
Soup: Enjoy with a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting combo.
White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the spaghetti is cooked just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Gradually Add Milk: Add the milk slowly while whisking to avoid lumps in the cheese sauce.
Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a smoother sauce.

Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning of the cheese sauce to your preference.
Bake Until Bubbly: Bake the casserole until the top is bubbly and golden for the best texture and flavor.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to let the sauce set.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese

Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Meaty: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon, ham, or ground beef for added protein.
Vegetarian: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Cheesy: Use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or Gouda for a richer flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour for the sauce.

Storing Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese: Best Practices

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
Label: Clearly label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Cool Completely: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese: Best Practices

Oven Method: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Microwave Option: Heat individual servings in the microwave on medium power.
Cover for Moisture: Cover with foil or a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.

Stir Occasionally: Stir during reheating to ensure even warming.

FAQs

How do I prevent spaghetti from clumping together in the casserole?

To prevent spaghetti from clumping together in the casserole, ensure you cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven. Additionally, toss the cooked spaghetti with a small amount of olive oil to keep it separated before mixing it with the cheese sauce.

Can I prepare Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese in advance. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.

What can I use instead of regular pasta for a gluten-free version?

For a gluten-free version of Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese, substitute regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure that you cook the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions, as cooking times may vary.

How do I reheat Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese without drying it out?

To reheat Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese without drying it out, cover the casserole with foil and place it in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through about 20 minutes. For individual servings, use a microwave on medium power, covering the dish with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can also help keep it creamy.

Final Words

The Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Cheese is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the best of pasta and cheese. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors and the ease of preparation with this wonderful recipe!

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