Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Cooking has always been a celebration in my family, where simple ingredients transform into cherished memories. One dish that captures that essence is creamy Southern spaghetti bake. Growing up, we often gathered at the table, savoring warm plates of decadent spaghetti mingled with tender chicken and rich cheeses.

This creamy Southern spaghetti bake stands out because of its comforting flavors and textures. Every bite offers a delightful creaminess that feels like a warm embrace. I remember those evenings when my family and I shared laughs and stories while digging into this dish. The aroma alone brings back nostalgic memories, and it continues to be a staple when hosting friends and family.

Cooking allows us to create connections that go beyond the meal itself. The creamy Southern spaghetti bake can become your go-to comfort food, offering ease in preparation while delivering a flavor-packed punch. Each ingredient plays a vital role in bringing harmony to the dish, making it a true favorite for any dinner table.

Now, let’s dive into creating this deliciously creamy spaghetti bake that’s bound to win hearts!

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Fundamentals

To start this culinary adventure, gather your fundamental ingredients. The base of our creamy Southern spaghetti bake includes spaghetti, cooked shredded chicken, a block of cream cheese, and a can of cream of chicken soup. These components meld together to create a luscious sauce that envelops the spaghetti. The cream cheese imparts a rich creaminess, while the cream of chicken soup adds depth and flavor.

Let’s not forget the essential seasoning that elevates this dish. A packet of ranch seasoning brings a burst of flavor, while garlic powder and black pepper create a fragrant backdrop. We will also use a generous helping of cheddar and Parmesan cheese to make this dish irresistibly cheesy and delicious.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, prepare the spaghetti according to package instructions until just al dente. Make sure to drain it well before setting it aside to cool slightly.

In a separate mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. This mixture should be smooth, setting the foundation for the creamy texture of our bake. Then, fold in the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese (reserving some for topping), grated Parmesan cheese, and cooked spaghetti.

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

Pour the combined pasta and sauce mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the crumbled bacon. Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in during baking.

Pop the dish in the oven for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until bubbly and golden. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to resist! Once it’s ready, let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before garnishing it with fresh parsley and serving it warm.

Creamy Southern Pasta Dish

Technique

Mastering the technique of this creamy Southern spaghetti bake ensures that you achieve optimal flavor and texture. Be attentive to the cooking times for the spaghetti; it should remain firm to the bite before mixing with your creamy sauce, as it will continue cooking in the oven. This step prevents it from becoming mushy and allows for that perfect texture when served.

Another key technique involves the assembly process. When folding in the chicken and cheese, take care not to overmix. This preserves the integrity of the ingredients and creates delightful pockets of creamy goodness throughout the dish.

Tips/Tricks

A few helpful tips can enhance your creamy Southern spaghetti bake further. Opt for freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor. You may also use rotisserie chicken for convenience; it adds a lovely richness without the effort.

For a touch of spice, you can mix in some diced green chilies or a bit of hot sauce. If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to substitute a blend that melts well, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Customize the toppings with additional crunchy bacon or even crispy breadcrumbs for an added texture contrast.

Flavorful Southern Baked Dish

Perfecting Results

To achieve perfection with your creamy Southern spaghetti bake, ensure all your sauce ingredients blend well together. A smooth texture is essential for a cohesive dish. It’s also important to keep an eye on your baking times, as ovens vary. Optimal cooking reveals a bubbly, golden top that invites you to dig right in.

For an extra boost of flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or thyme into your cheese and chicken mixture. Elevating the taste profile will impress your family and friends and create a comforting meal everyone will love.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If you encounter issues with a runny sauce, you can add in an extra tablespoon or two of cream cheese and mix until smooth, adjusting until the desired consistency is achieved. Alternatively, if your dish becomes too dry, you might drizzle a bit of chicken broth or cream over the top after baking to moisten it.

For variations, consider swapping the chicken for another protein, such as turkey or rotisserie chicken. You may also opt to add various vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms, giving your dish an extra boost of health and vibrance.

Serving and Storage

Presentation

When it comes to presentation, serve your creamy Southern spaghetti bake directly from the baking dish. It looks rustic and inviting. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add color and a hint of freshness. You might also serve it alongside a crisp garden salad for contrast, elevating the overall meal experience.

Pairings/Storage

Complement the creamy Southern spaghetti bake with simple sides like garlic bread or roasted vegetables. It fits well with classic dishes such as Caesar salad or a light coleslaw, balancing the richness of the dish.

For leftovers, store the creamy spaghetti bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to five days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or oven, ensuring it remains deliciously creamy each time.

Now you have the keys to creating a satisfying creamy Southern spaghetti bake that brings families together around the dinner table. Embrace the flavors, share the joy, and let this dish become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire.

Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

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• Author: emma
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Paleo

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Description

A comforting creamy southern spaghetti bake combining tender chicken, rich cheeses, and a luscious sauce for a delightful family meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the spaghetti according to package instructions until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, blend softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Fold in the cooked shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese (reserving some for topping), grated Parmesan cheese, and cooked spaghetti.
5. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, and cover with foil.
6. Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

For a touch of spice, consider adding diced green chilies or hot sauce. Customize toppings with bacon or crispy breadcrumbs for added texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: spaghetti, creamy, southern, bake, comfort food, chicken, cheese