Southern-Style Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Craving a warm, cheesy hug in the form of a casserole?

Imagine diving into a warm, creamy, and utterly comforting Southern-style chicken spaghetti casserole. This dish combines all the elements of a hearty meal, plus it’s super simple to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why make this recipe

Let’s be real: who has time for complicated recipes? Here’s why this casserole deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

• Easy cleanup: Just one pan and a bowl to wash — win!
• Family-friendly: Even the pickiest of eaters will gobble this up without a second thought.
• Affordable and filling: Your wallet will thank you while your tummy gets all cozy and happy.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Gather up:

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 1 cup cream
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, ranch dressing, cheese, bacon, cream, onions, and bell peppers. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
5. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy topping.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to make Southern-Style Chicken Spaghetti Casserole (Overview)

Making this casserole is straightforward and stress-free. Start by cooking your spaghetti; while it’s doing its thing, mix together all the deliciousness in a big bowl. After that, it’s just a matter of combining and baking! Don’t forget to season it to your taste; that little step can take your dish from good to “Whoa, what’s in this?”. Trust me, that crispy breadcrumb topping is a game-changer too!

How to serve Southern-Style Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

When it comes to serving this casserole, the options are endless! For a pop of color, add a fresh green salad or some roasted Brussels sprouts on the side. Just picture it — a plate piled high with cheesy goodness, a crunchy topping, and aromas wafting through the room. You’ll have people coming back for seconds (or thirds!). 😉

How to store Southern-Style Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Got leftovers? No problem! This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. It’s also freezer-friendly — just store it in an airtight container, and it’ll last up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Easy peasy, right?

Tips to make Southern-Style Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Here are some quick insider tricks:

• Timing: Get your ingredients prepped while your spaghetti cooks to save time.
• Ingredient swapping: Use leftover turkey or even veggies for a meatless version.
• Texture tips: Toast those breadcrumbs in a little butter for an extra buttery crunch.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Add some spicy jalapeños for a kick, or swap out the ranch dressing for a zesty barbecue sauce. You can even throw in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it the night before, cover it, and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

What can I use instead of ranch dressing?
Try a homemade dressing or switch to a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

Keep it cozy, and enjoy every cheesy bite! 📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Southern-Style Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

A warm, creamy, and comforting casserole featuring spaghetti, chicken, cheese, and ranch dressing, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Southern

Calories: 600

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti Cook according to package instructions
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 1 cup cream
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for topping) For extra crunch

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, ranch dressing, cheese, bacon, cream, onions, and bell peppers. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
5. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy topping.

Baking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days or freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For extra flavor, toast breadcrumbs in butter before topping.