Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a dish that many families enjoy. It combines easy-to-find ingredients and flavors that everyone loves. This dish brings together spaghetti and chicken in a creamy sauce, all baked until bubbly and golden. It is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or when you need comfort food.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe for many reasons. First, it is simple to make. If you follow the steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in less than an hour. Second, it is creamy and cheesy, which makes it incredibly satisfying. Third, it is a great way to use leftover chicken, making it both tasty and practical. Finally, this dish can feed a crowd, which is great for families or when you have friends over.

HOW TO MAKE Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Making Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is easy. Just gather your ingredients and follow these steps. You’ll have a rich and creamy dish that everyone will enjoy.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this recipe, you will need a few kitchen items:

• A large pot for boiling spaghetti
• A 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• A measuring cup
• A spoon for mixing
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 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)

 

 

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use cooking spray or butter to grease your 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the spaghetti in boiling water until it is just al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Use a spoon to mix everything together until it is smooth and creamy.
4. Carefully fold in the cooked shredded chicken, 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, and your drained spaghetti. Make sure everything is mixed well.
5. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This will make the top golden and bubbly.
7. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. If you like, you can garnish it with chopped parsley before serving.

HOW TO SERVE Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Serving Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is easy. You can dish it out right from the baking dish. Use a large spoon to scoop out portions. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. People usually enjoy it warm, but it’s also good at room temperature.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To freeze the spaghetti bake, let it cool down completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake can be served with several delicious sides. Here are some ideas:

• A fresh garden salad to add some crunch.
• Garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
• Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch.
• A light vinaigrette dressing on the side can enhance the meal, too.

VARIATIONS

You can change up this recipe in several ways if you want to mix things up:

• Use different types of cheese. Mozzarella or pepper jack can add a nice twist.
• Swap the chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey.
• Add some vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
• For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

FAQs

1. Can I use uncooked chicken?

Yes, you can use uncooked chicken. Just cook it thoroughly before mixing it into the pasta.

2. Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes, you can use gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and keep it in the fridge before baking.

4. Can I use cream cheese spread instead of regular cream cheese?

Yes, cream cheese spread will work just fine. Just make sure it is softened before mixing.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, you can prepare the dish up to the point where it goes in the oven. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to bake, just add about 10–15 more minutes to the cooking time because it will be cold. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the rush.

With these steps, tips, and answers, you’re all set to make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake! Enjoy your cooking!

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