Name: Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Southern comfort food
Ingredients: 12 ounces spaghetti, cooked al dente; 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort food: Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake. This cozy, indulgent casserole layers tender spaghetti with a luscious creamy cheese sauce, shredded chicken, and crispy bacon, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table pause for a second bite before even speaking.

Perfect for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or just when you need some good old-fashioned Southern comfort, this bake delivers all the heartiness of a casserole with the creamy richness of mac and cheese. The smokiness of bacon and the sharpness of cheddar bring balance to the creamy base, while the spaghetti soaks up every bit of flavor.

What Kind of Spaghetti Should I Use?

This recipe works beautifully with traditional spaghetti noodles, but feel free to experiment. Thin spaghetti or angel hair gives you a more delicate bite, while thicker noodles hold up well to the creamy sauce. If you’re craving a twist, swap in linguine or even fettuccine for extra indulgence.

Whatever you choose, be sure to cook the pasta just to al dente. Overcooked pasta will soften too much when baked and lose the dish’s perfect texture.

Ingredients for the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Spaghetti – The foundation of the dish, spaghetti absorbs the sauce and binds everything together.

Cooked Chicken – Shredded rotisserie or leftover chicken adds protein and pairs deliciously with the creamy flavors.

Cream Cheese – Gives the sauce its signature creamy richness and slight tang.

Cream of Chicken Soup – Adds depth and a velvety base for the sauce.

Sour Cream – Provides an extra layer of creaminess and a little zip.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar melts into the sauce and forms a golden, cheesy top layer.

Ranch Seasoning – Packs a punch of savory herbs and garlic flavor into the mix.

Cooked Bacon – Crumbled bacon gives smoky crunch and Southern flair.

Salt & Pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance all the other ingredients.

Parsley (optional) – A sprinkle of parsley for freshness and color on top.

How To Make the Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti Just Right

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Avoid overcooking—remember, the noodles will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and ranch seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy. This mixture is the heart of the dish—rich, tangy, and deeply comforting.

Step 3: Add Chicken and Spaghetti

Fold in the shredded cooked chicken and cooked spaghetti to the cream sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated and the chicken is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Layer with Cheese and Bacon

Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then follow with crumbled bacon for that irresistible smoky crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a bit of freshness. Serve hot, straight from the dish, and watch it disappear fast.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

This creamy bake is best served hot and fresh out of the oven when the cheese is still melty and the bacon is crisp. Pair it with a crisp green salad, some roasted green beans, or a side of garlic bread to round out the meal.

If you’re planning ahead, this dish can also be made in advance. Just assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes of baking time if it’s going straight from fridge to oven.

To store leftovers, let the bake cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot all the way through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake?

Yes! Assemble the bake in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra time as needed.

What kind of chicken works best?

Rotisserie chicken is quick and flavorful, but any cooked and shredded chicken will work great—including leftover roasted or poached chicken.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely. While cheddar brings a sharp bite, you can mix it with mozzarella for extra meltiness, or even pepper jack for a little kick.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not at all! It’s creamy and savory with a hint of tang from the ranch. If you want a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Can I make this vegetarian?

You sure can—just omit the chicken and bacon. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra substance and flavor.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe. If you halve the recipe, an 8×8-inch dish will work nicely.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake, you’re in for a treat with these other comforting, flavor-packed dishes:

Try the Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole for a meatier twist with a creamy layer surprise.
Warm up with a bowl of Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup—perfect for cozy nights.
Our Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce brings serious layers of comfort.
Don’t miss the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli—a full meal in one pan.
Or switch things up with the ultra-savory Red Pepper Rigatoni that brings a little spice to your plate.

These casseroles and bakes are ideal for busy nights, weekend potlucks, or make-ahead meals when you need something satisfying and simple.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the bacon? Mix in some veggies? Or add a spicy twist?

I love hearing how others bring their own flavor to these classics. Share your tips, swaps, or questions below—we’re all about cooking smarter and enjoying every bite.

Looking for more easy and delicious meal ideas? Browse all my daily recipes over on Pinterest – Life with Jam.