Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners. Combining tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and crispy bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and bake.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Cook the spaghetti until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Step 4: Fold in the cooked shredded chicken, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the cooked spaghetti into the creamy mixture.
5. Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top, then add the crumbled bacon.
6. Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
7. Step 7: Let the bake rest for 5–10 minutes before garnishing with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the creamy mixture.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon, and add cooked mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead.
• Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese will enhance the flavor more than pre-grated varieties.
• Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti at first—it will continue cooking in the oven, so al dente is best.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but oven reheating helps retain the creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and will save time while adding great flavor to the dish.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it as directed right before serving, adding a few extra minutes to baking time if starting from cold.

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 376 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting casserole featuring tender spaghetti mixed with shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, sour cream, and a blend of savory seasonings. Topped with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, then baked until golden and bubbly, it makes a hearty meal perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Spaghetti & Chicken

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken

Dairy & Sauces

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings & Others

• 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Make creamy sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
4. Combine all ingredients: Fold the cooked shredded chicken, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked spaghetti into the creamy sauce. Mix gently to combine all elements evenly.
5. Assemble casserole: Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Then, add the crumbled cooked bacon as a final topping.
6. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the casserole heat through.
7. Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
8. Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to allow it to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

• For extra crispy bacon, cook in the oven on a wire rack before crumbling.
• If you prefer, substitute cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream for a lighter version.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Keywords: creamy spaghetti bake, southern casserole, chicken spaghetti bake, comfort food pasta, baked spaghetti casserole