Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

why make this recipe

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy cheese and savory chicken. It’s a one-dish meal that is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it hard to resist, while the combination of ranch seasoning and bacon adds a delightful twist. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows you to use leftover chicken, saving you time in the kitchen.

how to make Creamy Southern Spaghetti 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)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook spaghetti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch mix, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
4. Fold in cooked chicken, 1½ cups cheddar, Parmesan, and cooked spaghetti.
5. Pour mixture into the baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and crumbled bacon.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Let rest 5–10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

how to serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake warm straight from the oven. This dish is great as a main course and can be complemented with a simple side salad or garlic bread. If desired, sprinkle extra parsley on top for a fresh touch.

how to store Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for later use. Just cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to three months.

tips to make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

• Make sure to soak the cream cheese with room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth texture.
• You can double this recipe if you’re serving a crowd.
• For a bit of heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Feel free to switch up the cheese. Mozzarella or pepper jack can add different flavors!

variation

If you’re looking for variations, you can replace the shredded chicken with cooked ground beef or sausage. For a vegetarian option, use a medley of your favorite vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and mushrooms instead of meat.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?
Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the pasta mixture.

Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, you can substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta.

Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it the next day.

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