Can I make this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed but add 10 minutes since it’ll be cold.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Freeze before baking for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.

Can I use a different cheese?

Definitely. The secondary keywords apply nicely here—this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake works with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack if you're feeling spicy.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

Ricotta or mascarpone will work in a pinch, though the texture will be slightly different.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven.

5 Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake Secrets You'll Love

Description

This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake is the ultimate comfort casserole—packed with tender spaghetti, shredded chicken, a rich creamy sauce, melty cheddar, and crispy bacon. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this Southern-inspired bake is warm, hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Boil spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
Combine Everything:
Add shredded chicken, 1½ cups cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Fold in the cooked spaghetti until well coated.
Assemble the Bake:
Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and crumbled bacon.
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.
Rest & Serve:
Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Want more ranch flavor? Add half a packet more.
This dish freezes beautifully—assemble, freeze, thaw overnight, then bake.
Great for meal prep! Leftovers stay delicious for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Casserole , dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 645 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 850 mg
Fat: 36 g
Saturated Fat: 18 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 44 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 135 mg