Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Get Ready for a Comfort-food Delight!
Ever wondered what it’s like to dive into a bubbling, cheesy concoction that hugs your taste buds? Let me introduce you to a delightful dish that has taken kitchen circles by storm: Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake! This recipe combines the familiar comfort of spaghetti with tons of creamy goodness, making it the perfect meal for any cozy night. Bonus? It’s all done in a single pan!
Why Make This Recipe?
You’re going to love this dish for some pretty good reasons:
- Easy cleanup: Who doesn’t want to spend less time scrubbing pots and pans? This recipe is a one-pan wonder!
- Family-friendly: Kids (and adults) can’t resist a creamy, cheesy bake. Get ready for some clean plates!
- Budget-friendly: With simple ingredients, this dish won’t break the bank, and it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken.
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 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
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch mix, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in cooked chicken, 1½ cups cheddar, Parmesan, and the cooked spaghetti.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar and crumbled bacon.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
How to Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake (Overview)
Making this dish? It’s as easy as pie—actually, even easier! Start by cooking your spaghetti until it’s just right, but don’t let it get mushy. While it’s cooking, whip together a creamy blend of sauces and spices. Then, just fold in your chicken and those delightful cheeses.
- Pro tip: Don’t skip mixing until everything is nice and smooth. It elevates the texture to creamy perfection!
Next, pour everything into your baking dish, sprinkle on some cheese and bacon, and let the oven do the magic. In about 40 minutes, you’ll have a bubbling masterpiece ready to go!
How to Serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
When it’s time to dig in, think color and crunch! Serve this creamy bake with a simple side salad for some freshness or alongside garlic bread for that perfect crunch. Imagine pulling a luscious piece out of the pan, the aroma of melted cheese wafting through the air. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color—who can resist?
How to Store Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3–4 days. If you freeze it, you can enjoy it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before popping it in the freezer. When you’re ready for round two, simply reheat in the oven for best results. Trust me; it’s going to taste like a fresh batch every time!
Tips to Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
- Timing is everything: Don’t overcook your spaghetti! Al dente is where it’s at for that perfect bake.
- Ingredient swaps: Got turkey or beef? You can easily swap those for chicken and still get a fabulous result.
- Texture tip: For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk to the sauce mixture before folding in the other ingredients.
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few easy ways to change it up:
- Vegan-friendly: Substitute chicken with your favorite plant-based protein and swap the cream cheese and sour cream for vegan alternatives.
- Spice it up: Add chopped jalapeños for a kick or toss in some veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it right before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Just make sure it’s cooled completely before placing it in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
Cream of mushroom or homemade white sauce works just as well!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch mix, garlic powder, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in cooked chicken, 1½ cups cheddar, Parmesan, and the cooked spaghetti.
- Pour the mixture into the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar and crumbled bacon.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
