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Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

This ultimate comfort casserole combines tender chicken, ranch-flavored cream sauce, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon for an irresistibly creamy and cheesy family dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 560

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken rotisserie chicken works great
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup 1 can
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 oz ranch seasoning mix 1 packet
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided, preferably freshly shredded
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 6 slices bacon cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • whisk or hand mixer
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook spaghetti in well-salted boiling water until just al dente according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until completely smooth using a whisk or hand mixer.
  4. Gently fold in cooked chicken, 1½ cups cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked spaghetti until evenly combined and coated with the creamy mixture.
  5. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
  6. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  7. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use rotisserie chicken and shred your own cheese. Don't overcook the pasta as it continues cooking in the oven. Cover with foil during initial baking to prevent over-browning. Can be assembled 24 hours ahead and refrigerated before baking.
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