Description
A warm, cheesy casserole blending Southern flavors with the simplicity of spaghetti, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, allowing the pasta to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re fragrant and translucent.
- Next, add the diced tomatoes with green chilies, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until the flavors meld and the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and cooked pasta, combining everything thoroughly. Add the sour cream, coating the mixture evenly for a rich, creamy texture.
- Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of optional Parmesan for additional cheesiness.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden. Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge before baking. Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, spaghetti bake, southern recipe, comfort food, weeknight dinner