Name: Creamy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded; 12 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) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained; 1 cup chopped green bell pepper; 1 cup chopped red bell pepper; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp paprika

If you’re searching for a delicious and fulfilling family meal that is both comforting and simple to prepare, look no further than this creamy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole. Combining tender spaghetti with savory shredded chicken, a medley of colorful peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish offers an explosion of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Ideal for busy weeknights, this casserole is straightforward to make and perfect for potlucks, where you need to feed a crowd with minimal effort.

The beauty of this Spaghetti Chicken Casserole lies in its versatility and the ease with which you can whip it up. With ingredients you likely already have at home, it’s a perfect recipe to rely on for those days when your schedule is packed but you still want to serve a hearty meal. Additionally, it can be made ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and baked when you’re ready to enjoy it, making it a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts. Not only does it deliver on taste, but it also allows you to spend more quality time with your family at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Chicken Casserole

Quick and Easy Preparation: This dish can be prepared in just a few simple steps, making it a perfect option for families in a rush.
Rich Flavor: With the combination of cheddar cheese, creamy soups, and seasoned chicken, every bite is a burst of flavor.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to serve.
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy appeal and familiar flavors make it a hit with children and picky eaters.
Comforting and Filling: Loaded with hearty ingredients, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy your hunger.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into making your Spaghetti Chicken Casserole, it’s crucial to prepare your workspace for an efficient cooking experience. First and foremost, gather all your ingredients to prevent any last-minute searches in your pantry. Pre-cook your spaghetti and chicken breast (a great way to use up leftovers), and have your vegetables chopped and ready. This will save you valuable time and keep the process smooth.

For this recipe, you will need a few essential tools:

Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: To hold the casserole while it bakes to perfection.
Pot for Cooking Spaghetti: Use the right pot size to cook your spaghetti until al dente.

Once you have your kitchen set and tools ready, it’s time to get cooking!

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
12 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) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential, as it ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and efficiently, resulting in perfectly melted cheese and a bubbling, golden-brown topping.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Add the garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika into the mix, stirring well to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated. This creamy base is what gives your casserole its rich flavor and comforting texture.

Step 3: Mix in the Hearty Ingredients

Next, fold in the cooked shredded chicken, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the chopped bell peppers and onion into the creamy mixture. Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing gently to ensure that everything is evenly distributed and well-coated in the sauce.

Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti

Now, carefully add the cooked and drained spaghetti to the bowl. Gently fold it into the creamy mixture until all the noodles are thoroughly coated. This step is essential to ensuring that every bite of casserole is filled with the delightful combination of flavors. Transfer this well-mixed mixture to your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese has melted and turned a beautiful golden color. For an extra crispy cheese topping, consider broiling for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Variations

Protein: Swap shredded chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a different flavor profile.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies such as zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to enhance the nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for an herby twist.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to fully drain your tomatoes to avoid a watery casserole.
For convenience, use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking.
This casserole can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Pair it with garlic bread for a comforting and hearty dinner experience.

Tips

Use low-fat cream soups and cheese for a lighter version of this casserole.
Prepare the dish a day in advance; just cover it with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Adjust the cheese to your liking; add more for an ultra cheesy dish!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.

What can I substitute for the cream soups?

If you would like to avoid cream soups, you can use a homemade white sauce as a substitute, or even a good quality Alfredo sauce.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What side dishes go well with this casserole?

A simple side of roasted vegetables or a crisp Caesar salad pairs nicely with the hearty nature of the dish.

Conclusion

Your search for the ultimate family dinner idea ends here with this creamy Spaghetti Chicken Casserole. Not only is it immensely satisfying, but it’s also an effortless fix that brings everyone together around the dinner table. With a blend of hearty ingredients and a depth of flavor that pleases even the pickiest eaters, this dish takes comfort food to the next level. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below, and let us know how your family enjoys this recipe. Happy cooking!