This creamy chicken spaghetti casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a versatile and hearty dish that is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. With its flavorful ingredients and gooey cheese topping, this casserole is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, green bell peppers, and red bell peppers. Sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Mix well.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked chicken, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Gradually fold in the cooked spaghetti and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Conclusion:
Creamy chicken spaghetti casserole is a deliciously comforting dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Packed with creamy sauce, tender pasta, and a cheesy topping, it’s a perfect family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a make-ahead meal, this casserole will surely impress your guests and loved ones.
Tips:
- Customization: Add mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice It Up: For a kick, mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake when ready.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.