Print

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe

5.3 from 30 reviews

This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake combines tender spaghetti with succulent shredded chicken in a rich and cheesy sauce made with cream cheese, sour cream, and a savory ranch seasoning. Topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar, this comforting casserole is perfect for a hearty family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken

Cheese and Dairy

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

Canned and Seasoning

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Other

  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
  2. Cook spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti until just al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly. This ensures it will hold its shape during baking.
  3. Make creamy mixture: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
  4. Mix in chicken and cheese: Fold the cooked shredded chicken, 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and the cooked spaghetti into the creamy mixture. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  5. Assemble casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese evenly on top, then add the crumbled cooked bacon for a flavorful crunchy topping.
  6. Bake covered: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
  7. Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden and slightly crisp.
  8. Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving, then garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

  • You can substitute rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy mixture.
  • To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check the soup and ranch seasoning for gluten content.
  • If you prefer, replace bacon with cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition

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