If you are searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that brings together creamy cheese, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, the Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, where gooey melted cheddar meets the savory richness of cream of mushroom soup and parmesan, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat—a true family favorite that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the first step to making this Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe shine. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender shredded chicken providing protein and heartiness to the bell pepper adding a subtle crisp sweetness and color. These essential ingredients combine effortlessly to create layers of rich, cheesy goodness everyone’s going to love.
- 8-12 ounces spaghetti, uncooked: Choose your favorite style; long noodles work wonderfully to hold the cheesy sauce.
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Perfect for protein and the main body of the casserole.
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of mushroom soup: Adds a creamy, earthy base that ties the casserole together.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and enhances the savory depth.
- ½ cup sour cream: Brings a tangy richness that balances the cheese nicely.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish to boost flavor.
- 1 red or green bell pepper, finely diced: Introduces vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, aromatic touch.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle savory notes.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of spice.
- 1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that irresistible cheesy top layer.
How to Make Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13 casserole dish with nonstick spray. Cooking the spaghetti just right is key—boil it in salted water until al dente for a bit of bite or softer if you prefer a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t rinse the noodles after draining; this helps the sauce cling beautifully in the casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, sour cream, parmesan cheese, diced bell pepper, and spices. Stir until every ingredient blends into a luscious, creamy mixture that promises rich flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Combine Spaghetti with the Mixture
Gently fold the cooked spaghetti noodles into your creamy chicken mixture. This step ensures every strand of pasta is coated in the cheesy, flavorful sauce, making the casserole utterly delicious with each forkful.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the prepared mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. Now, it’s time to sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese liberally on top—this is what gives the casserole that spectacularly gooey, golden crust. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and beautifully browned, then let it rest a few minutes before diving in.
How to Serve Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add bursts of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the casserole right before serving. A little extra grated parmesan on top also complements the cheesy goodness with a savory touch.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or roasted veggies like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. These sides add texture and a pop of color, balancing the creamy richness of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This not only looks charming but keeps each portion piping hot and cheesy. You could also add a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red chili flakes for those who love a bit of heat with their comfort food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving.
Freezing
This Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare as directed but stop before the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake until bubbly and golden.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Remove the foil in the last few minutes to refresh the cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic here, penne, rotini, or even bowtie pasta make excellent substitutes. Just cook them to the same al dente texture for best results.
Is it okay to use canned chicken?
You can, but fresh cooked chicken tends to have better texture and flavor. If using canned chicken, drain it well and perhaps add some seasoning to boost the taste.
How can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Simply swap the regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta and confirm that your canned soup and broth are gluten-free versions. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
Can I add vegetables other than bell peppers?
Definitely. Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to cook or sauté firmer veggies beforehand to prevent watery casserole.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar is the star here because of its melt and flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella for extra stretchiness or Monterey Jack for a milder option. Parmesan sprinkled inside adds a savory boost too.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a warm, cheesy casserole that feels both homey and indulgent, and this Cheesy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole Recipe fits that bill perfectly. It’s straightforward to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to become a beloved staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
