Introduction
Before we even dive in — thank you for stopping by and cooking with me today! ❤️ Your support means the world, and it’s what keeps me creating these cozy, family-style meals that bring everyone together.
Now, let’s talk about this dish — Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. It’s everything you want in comfort food: creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every single bite. This Southern-inspired classic is one of those “love at first forkful” recipes that never fails to please a crowd.
Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or make-ahead freezer meals, this casserole has tender spaghetti, shredded chicken, peppers, and onions all baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The result? A bubbling, golden masterpiece that’s pure happiness in a baking dish.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🧀 Ultra Creamy & Cheesy – Every bite is rich, smooth, and satisfying.
- 👨👩👧 Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love it!
- 🕒 Meal-Prep Friendly – Make it ahead, freeze it, and bake when needed.
- 🍗 Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples you already have.
- 🎉 Perfect for Gatherings – A total hit at holidays, parties, or Sunday dinners.
Ingredients
🛒 What You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- ½ cup diced onion
- ½ cup diced green bell pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- (Optional) ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Aluminum foil (for storage or freezing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
👩🍳 Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
🥣 Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, Rotel, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended and smooth.
🍗 Step 3: Add the Good Stuff
Add cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, onions, bell peppers, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
If you’re going for extra creaminess (and who isn’t?), add sour cream or cream cheese here. Mix until everything is coated in that luscious sauce.
🍝 Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Top generously with more shredded cheddar cheese.
🔥 Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving — this helps it set perfectly.
Notes & Tips
- 🕓 Time Saver: Use a store-bought rotisserie chicken to make prep a breeze.
- 🍝 No spaghetti? Substitute with penne, rotini, or even fettuccine.
- 🌶️ Add a kick: Use pepper jack cheese or toss in diced jalapeños.
- ❄️ Freezer-friendly: Assemble the casserole, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 10–15 minutes to the cook time.
🍽️ What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread or cheesy biscuits
- Fresh green salad or steamed broccoli
- Sweet tea or iced lemonade for that Southern touch
💡 Helpful Tips for Success
- Always drain the Rotel tomatoes to avoid a watery sauce.
- For even creamier texture, use half sour cream and half cream cheese.
- If baking from the fridge, add an extra 10 minutes of baking time.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top for a crispy topping!
🧊 Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
📋 General Information
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Serves: 6–8
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this without canned soups?
A: Yes! Replace them with a quick homemade sauce made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and milk — plus a handful of cheese.
Q: What’s the best pasta shape for casseroles?
A: Spaghetti is traditional, but penne or rotini hold sauce beautifully too.
Q: Can I make this spicy?
A: Definitely! Add jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or spicy Rotel.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
A: Add a splash of milk or chicken broth before reheating in the oven, covered with foil.
❤️ Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is pure, feel-good comfort food — simple to make, rich in flavor, and guaranteed to make any dinner feel like a special occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family meal or a potluck favorite, this casserole delivers warmth and satisfaction every single time.
So, go grab that baking dish and get ready to impress your loved ones — one cheesy bite at a time! 🧀💛
🌟 More Recipes You’ll Love
- Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
- Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps
- Perfect Baked Potatoes Recipe
- Classic 7UP Pound Cake
📸 Join the Fun!
Did you make this recipe?
✨ Leave a comment below, give it a ⭐ rating, and share your photo on Pinterest or Facebook! I’d love to see your version of this cheesy classic.
🥄 Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
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