Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and convenience, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake has quickly become a favorite in my household. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively potluck with friends. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and cheesy goodness make each bite feel like a warm hug.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or make it ahead for those days when you know you’ll need a hearty meal waiting for you. Trust me—once you try this dish, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, dinner is ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavors.
• Comfort in Every Bite: A warm casserole that feels like home cooking.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and heat it when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious dish!

For the Bake

• 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)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie turkey or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Change the cheese: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Add vegetables: Mix in some steamed broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative.

How to Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly. While that’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Next, cook your spaghetti until it’s just al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain it well and set aside. This step is crucial because overcooking the pasta now could lead to mushy noodles later.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth. This creamy mixture is what makes our bake so rich and flavorful!

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Gently fold in the cooked chicken, 1½ cups of cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and cooked spaghetti into your creamy mixture. Be careful not to break up the spaghetti too much – we want those lovely strands intact!

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour everything into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. This layer will become nice and crispy while baking—absolutely delicious!

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Cover your baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that time is up, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7: Serve It Warm

Let your casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps everything set nicely. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy your delightful Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake! It’s sure to be a hit at any table!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Making this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture, ensuring your casserole is vibrant and tasty.
• Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti just until al dente; it will continue to cook in the oven, absorbing delicious flavors without becoming mushy.
• Customize your toppings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the bake to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is as delightful to present as it is to eat! Here are some ideas for serving this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a touch of freshness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes gives an exciting kick that balances the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the rich pasta bake perfectly and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy, crunchy contrast that pairs well with the creamy texture of the spaghetti bake.
• Caesar salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing provides a refreshing balance to the hearty casserole.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish while offering a delightful twist.

No matter how you choose to serve your Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake, it’s sure to bring smiles at your dinner table! Enjoy every cheesy bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it save time during busy weeknights, but it also tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. Here’s how you can store, freeze, and reheat this delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the spaghetti bake to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the spaghetti bake cool completely.
• Cover tightly with aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, label the container with the date and contents.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• To reheat from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before following the same baking instructions. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on high until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake!

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure you adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long does this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it cools completely before storing!

Can I customize the ingredients in the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?

Yes! This recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition or swap out chicken for turkey or another protein of your choice.

Is there a vegetarian option for this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?

Certainly! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or any other preferred vegetables. Just ensure that your cream of chicken soup is replaced with a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort food that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a cozy night at home, I’m sure you’ll love every cheesy bite. Happy cooking!