Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake: A Rich and Comforting Chicken Pasta Delight 🍝✨🌿
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a hearty, satisfying meal that combines the creamy goodness of Southern cooking with the comforting flavors of baked pasta, then look no further than the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake. This dish, also known as Southern Baked Chicken Spaghetti, is a crowd-pleaser that perfectly embodies Dinner Made With Chicken. Whether you’re planning 2 Person Supper Ideas or hosting family gatherings, this Best Yummy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Its rich, cheesy sauce combined with tender chicken and spaghetti-like pasta creates a flavor-packed experience that transports your taste buds straight to the heart of the South.
2. Ingredients for Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for flavor)
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare the Best Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake
3.1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, following package instructions. Drain and set aside. For more pasta ideas, check out chicken cordon bleu soup or cheeseburger pasta for tasty variations.
3.2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir until well combined, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.
3.3. Mix Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and gently fold everything together. Pour in the milk or heavy cream to attain a rich, smooth consistency. For additional inspiration, explore our smothered chicken and rice recipe for similar comforting dishes.
3.4. Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle extra cheese if desired, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
3.5. Serve and Garnish
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. This Southern Spaghetti Chicken Bake pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. For quick side dishes, explore our crack corn casserole or French onion beef casserole.
4. Storage Tips and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals until heated through, or re-bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures your Southern Spaghetti Bake remains delicious and creamy even the next day.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Dinner
Enhance your meal with simple but flavorful side dishes like steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad. This satisfying Southern Baked Chicken Spaghetti makes an excellent main course for dinner parties, weeknight family meals, or cozy date nights at home. To add some variety, you might check out our Korean ground beef bowl for a different flavor profile.
6. Why Choose Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti Bake?
This recipe stands out because it combines the creamy, cheesy goodness typical of Southern Spaghetti Like Recipes with tender chicken, making it a perfect dish like no other. It’s versatile, easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, and ideal for both weeknights and special occasions. For more comforting casserole ideas, visit Cheeseburger Pasta.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Creamy Southern Chicken Spaghetti
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven. This makes dinner prep easier, especially on busy days.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for varied flavors. Cheddar and Parmesan, however, are classic and create that signature Southern taste.
Q: Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
While traditional spaghetti is wheat-based, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta for a tasty gluten-free Southern Spaghetti Chicken Bake.
8. Conclusion
The Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a delightful fusion of Southern flavors and comforting baked pasta, making it perfect for 2 person supper ideas and larger gatherings alike. Its rich, cheesy sauce paired with tender chicken creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this Southern Spaghetti Chicken Bake offers a simple yet satisfying meal option that embodies the best of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty, cheesy goodness that will become a family favorite!
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Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Contains Dairy, Contains Poultry
Description
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a rich, comforting chicken pasta dish infused with Southern flavors. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this baked spaghetti recipe combines tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and al dente pasta for an irresistible meal that embodies Southern hospitality.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti or pasta of your choice
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Optional: sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of mushroom or chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and gently fold everything together. Pour in the milk or heavy cream and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle additional cheese if desired, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with sides like garlic bread or salad.
Notes
- You can substitute different cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Colby for varied flavor variations.
- Make ahead: assemble the casserole, refrigerate, and bake later for convenience.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta variety.
- Sauté extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms and add for more texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
