Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti. It combines tender pasta with creamy ingredients and a hint of ranch flavor, making it a comforting and satisfying dish. This recipe is perfect for family dinners and potlucks. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for busy weeknights or gatherings.
How to Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients:
- 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 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 cooked spaghetti.
- Pour mixture into baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and crumbled bacon.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 10-15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
How to Serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. You can also enjoy it as a hearty dish on its own.
How to Store Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months.
Tips to Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
- Make sure to cook the spaghetti until just al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- You can prepare the dish a day ahead and just bake it before serving for easy entertaining.
Variation
You can change the protein in this dish by using cooked turkey or pork instead of chicken. For a meatless option, try adding roasted vegetables or a blend of beans.
FAQs
Q: Can I use gluten-free pasta?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti if you’re avoiding gluten.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Q: What can I serve with Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?
A: It goes well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti Cooked until just al dente
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 8 oz block cream cheese, softened
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
- 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) For garnish
Instructions
Preparation and Baking
- Preheat 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 cooked spaghetti.
- Pour mixture into baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and crumbled bacon.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 10-15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
