Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake has long been a cornerstone of comfort food in my kitchen, and I’m so excited to share this incredible Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe with you. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, evoking memories of family gatherings and Sunday dinners. The aroma alone – a blend of savory chicken, tangy ranch, and gooey cheese – is enough to make your mouth water. Making this Homemade Southern Spaghetti Casserole brings such joy, and I can’t wait for you to experience its creamy, cheesy goodness. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
- The taste is unbelievably creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory ranch and bacon flavor.
- It’s a truly Easy Creamy Spaghetti Bake that comes together in under 30 minutes of prep.
- Packed with protein from chicken and cheese, making it a satisfying meal.
- Budget-friendly, using common pantry staples for a delicious dinner.
- A guaranteed hit with the whole family, earning its place as a Southern Comfort Food Spaghetti Bake.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a make-ahead dish.
- It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite additions.
Ingredients for Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe. The star is the creamy sauce, built on softened cream cheese and rich cream of chicken soup, which provides a luscious base. We’ll also use plenty of shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible gooeyness and a punch of flavor. The ranch seasoning mix is key for that classic Southern tang, while cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken make it a hearty meal.
- 12 oz spaghetti – cook until just al dente
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened – essential for that creamy texture
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup – adds moisture and richness
- 1 cup sour cream – for extra tang and creaminess
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix – the secret to that signature flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – a little savory boost
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of spice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – for gooey melted goodness
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – for that essential smoky crunch
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley – optional, but adds a fresh finish
How to Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
- Step 1: First things first, get your oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab your favorite 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good grease. This prevents any sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Step 2: Cook your spaghetti according to package directions, but make sure to stop when it’s just al dente – you don’t want it mushy! Drain it well and set it aside.
- Step 3: Now for the magic sauce! In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, a can of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, that packet of ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Beat it all together until it’s wonderfully smooth and creamy. The aroma of the ranch and garlic is already starting to smell like a true Southern Style Spaghetti Bake!
- Step 4: Add the cooked shredded chicken, 1½ cups of your shredded cheddar cheese, and the grated Parmesan cheese to that glorious sauce. Gently fold in the drained spaghetti until every strand is coated in that creamy goodness.
- Step 5: Pour this delightful mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and all that crispy, crumbled bacon over the top. This is where it really starts looking like a Cheesy Southern Spaghetti Bake!
- Step 6: Cover the dish tightly with foil. Pop it into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Step 7: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and you see those irresistible bubbly edges.
- Step 8: Let your masterpiece rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape. If you like, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color, and then serve this amazing Southern Spaghetti Bake warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
I’ve made this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it. They ensure you get that perfect texture and flavor every single time you whip up this classic dish.
- Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, and it’s already seasoned beautifully.
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it will continue to cook in the oven, so al dente is key.
- Make sure your cream cheese is truly softened; it makes combining the sauce ingredients so much easier.
- For an extra cheesy experience, mix in some of the bacon bits with the spaghetti mixture before topping.
What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?
The secret to a perfect Southern Spaghetti Bake with Cream Cheese lies in the creamy sauce base. Ensuring your cream cheese is fully softened and combining it thoroughly with the soup and sour cream creates that incredibly smooth, luscious texture that defines this dish. For more tips on achieving perfect creamy textures in cooking, you can explore resources on food preparation techniques.
Can I make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This is a great make-ahead strategy, similar to other casserole dishes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?
A common pitfall is overcooking the spaghetti, which leads to a mushy bake. Always cook it just until al dente. Also, ensure you don’t overmix the spaghetti with the sauce; gentle folding prevents breaking the noodles and keeps the dish from becoming dense. Understanding proper pasta cooking is key, as highlighted in many culinary guides.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
This delightful Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides. For a classic Southern meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans. You could also offer some crusty garlic bread to sop up any extra sauce. If you’re looking for another Creamy Casserole Southern Style to round out your spread, consider a simple coleslaw or a side of cornbread. It’s the perfect addition to any potluck or family gathering!
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delicious Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake. This dish is hearty and satisfying, offering a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
- Calories: 560
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Protein: 31g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 860mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
This hearty Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is fantastic for meal prep or leftovers, making it a perfect Southern Spaghetti Bake Dinner Idea. Once it’s cooled down completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze it! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Then, microwave individual servings until heated through, or place larger portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and hot.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
What is Southern Spaghetti Bake?
A Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting, casserole-style dish that typically features spaghetti noodles mixed with a creamy sauce, often including meat like ground beef or chicken, and topped with cheese. It’s a classic example of Southern comfort food, designed to be hearty, satisfying, and perfect for family gatherings. You can find more information on classic Southern dishes at KALI RECIPES.
How to make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?
To make a Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake, you’ll start by cooking your spaghetti. Then, you’ll prepare a rich, creamy sauce, often with cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream, seasoned with things like ranch mix and garlic powder. Combine the sauce with cooked chicken and spaghetti, pour into a baking dish, top with cheese and bacon, and bake until golden and bubbly.
Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost flavor and nutrition. Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms are excellent additions to the sauce mixture. You could even stir in some frozen peas or corn during the final assembly before baking for a pop of color and texture. For other recipe ideas that incorporate vegetables, check out this collection.
What kind of cheese melts best in a Southern Spaghetti Bake?
Sharp cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its robust flavor and excellent melting qualities, giving you that desired gooey texture. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of Italian cheeses also work wonderfully. Using a combination of cheeses, like cheddar and Parmesan, adds complexity and ensures a perfectly melted topping.
Variations of Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake You Can Try
This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is so versatile, you can tweak it endlessly to suit your taste! For a classic twist, try a Southern Spaghetti Bake with Ground Beef; simply brown a pound of ground beef with onion and garlic, drain the fat, and add it in place of the chicken. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using turkey or even a vegetarian version with sautéed mushrooms and extra veggies. Another fantastic variation is a Family Favorite Southern Spaghetti Bake that incorporates a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little kick. You can also experiment with different herbs or a dash of hot sauce to make it your own! For more inspiration on variations, explore these ideas.
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Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake: 30 Min Prep
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and comforting Southern-style spaghetti bake featuring shredded chicken, a rich ranch-seasoned cream cheese sauce, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon. This easy casserole is perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
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 for garnish)
Instructions
- 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 large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked chicken, 1½ cups of the cheddar cheese, and the Parmesan cheese to the cream sauce. Fold in the drained spaghetti until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the Southern spaghetti bake rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a shortcut, use rotisserie chicken.
- Feel free to substitute turkey or ham for chicken, or add sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Add a few dashes of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier Southern spaghetti bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx.)
- Calories: 560
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
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