If you are craving a rich, comforting meal that combines the best of creamy textures and hearty flavors, then you’ve got to try this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, blending tender spaghetti, succulent shredded chicken, and a luscious sauce made from cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch seasoning. Topped with crispy bacon and melted cheddar, this dish brings Southern comfort food vibes into a classic pasta bake that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is a star player that adds depth and balance to the final dish, from the creamy cheese blend to the savory bacon bits that add a delightful crunch.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: Cooked al dente to provide the perfect bite and base for all the creaminess.
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken: Adds a hearty protein punch and keeps the dish satisfying.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates that rich, velvety texture that binds everything together.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup: Infuses the bake with classic Southern warmth and extra creaminess.
- 1 cup sour cream: Gives a tangy twist that brightens the dish and balances the richness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a golden, cheesy topping that melts beautifully under heat.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: Brings a burst of herby, savory flavor that ties all ingredients together.
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds smoky depth and a crunchy finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh splash of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness.
How to Make Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your creamy spaghetti bake won’t stick and gets that irresistible golden crust on top.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil plenty of salted water and cook 12 ounces of spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente. This means it should be tender but still have a bit of bite, so it holds up nicely in the bake without turning mushy. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy; this will coat the spaghetti beautifully, creating the luscious, Southern-style sauce that defines this dish.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Spaghetti
Fold in the shredded cooked chicken along with the drained spaghetti. Toss everything gently to ensure every strand and shred is covered in that creamy, flavorful sauce. This step is key for infusing every bite with that delicious Southern flair.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the creamy spaghetti and chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Getting it flat ensures even baking and a perfect bubbly finish.
Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and then scatter the crumbled cooked bacon. These toppings will melt and crisp up, adding incredible texture and flavor contrasts.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling sauce underneath and a golden cheese topping that’s slightly crispy around the edges. This transformation is what makes the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe so irresistible.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, sprinkle your casserole with fresh chopped parsley, if using. It adds a touch of fresh flavor and a pop of green, making the dish as inviting to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Serve warm and watch your guests dive in happily.
How to Serve Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is simple yet elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. You can also offer a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of paprika for a little extra kick and color contrast, balancing out the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta bake pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green beans. The crunch and acidity in these sides cut perfectly through the creamy, cheesy base, offering a balanced and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style dinner, serve the bake straight from the dish alongside rustic bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a casual get-together, spoon the bake into cute ramekins and garnish with extra bacon and herbs for personalized servings that feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover creamy Southern spaghetti bake stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making the leftovers almost as delicious as the fresh bake.
Freezing
This dish freezes well before baking. Simply assemble in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a little extra baking time if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave until warmed through. To keep the topping crispy, reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes works best. If microwaving, cover loosely to retain moisture but be mindful that the cheese topping won’t stay crisp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works great, you can use penne, rotini, or even macaroni. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to keep the pasta al dente, so it maintains a nice texture after baking.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can make it gluten-free easily by swapping the regular spaghetti for a gluten-free variety and making sure your cream of chicken soup and seasoning mix are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions that work perfectly here.
Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Yes, you can use cooked turkey or even cooked vegetables like mushrooms and spinach for a vegetarian twist. Keep in mind that swapping the protein will slightly change the dish’s flavor profile but will still be delicious.
How spicy is the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe?
This dish is mild and comforting by nature, but the ranch seasoning adds a savory, herby flavor without heat. You can always add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like a little spice.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the dish the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to eat, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes at the end to ensure it’s hot throughout.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe is a keeper — rich, cozy, and bursting with flavors that feel like home. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to serve guests, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Give it a try and let this comforting pasta bake become your new favorite comfort food classic!
Print
Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is a comforting casserole that combines al dente spaghetti, tender shredded chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce made with cream cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Enhanced with ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, this hearty dish bakes to bubbly perfection, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 ounces spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings and Garnish
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make Creamy Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add Chicken and Pasta: Fold the shredded cooked chicken and the drained spaghetti into the creamy sauce mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the creamy spaghetti and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent baking.
- Add Cheese and Bacon Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Then, scatter the crumbled cooked bacon across the cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and turns a light golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired to add color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- You can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
- Make sure the spaghetti is not overcooked to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked when ready to serve.
- Adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers can increase nutrition and color.
