Treat your taste buds to the ultimate comfort food experience with this delicious Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and gooey melted cheese, this hearty dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy meal for yourself, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 7 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut up into pieces
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (green or red)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cans (10.75-oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup jack cheese
- Optional: Add mushrooms or celery
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, sautéed onion and bell peppers, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the jack cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and melted. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms or celery to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the casserole mixture.
- Use Different Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, provolone, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use other types of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer in this recipe, such as penne, rotini, or macaroni.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
Q: Can I use homemade cream of mushroom soup? A: Absolutely! You can use homemade cream of mushroom soup if you prefer. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version: For a keto-friendly version of Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, substitute the spaghetti with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Use a low-carb cream of mushroom soup or make your own keto-friendly version. Replace the milk with unsweetened almond milk or heavy cream, and use a combination of keto-friendly cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Low-Carb Version: To reduce the carb content, use a smaller amount of spaghetti or substitute it with shirataki noodles or spiralized vegetables. Opt for a reduced-fat or low-sodium cream of mushroom soup, and use low-fat cheese or skip the cheese topping altogether.
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite veggies and cheeses, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving up a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Experience the creamy, cheesy goodness of Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite veggies and cheeses, and enjoy the satisfaction of serving up a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
