Creamy Southern Spaghetti Bake

This creamy Southern spaghetti bake is a comforting dinner that brings together tender pasta, shredded chicken, and a luscious cheesy sauce. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to gather around the table for a satisfying and hearty meal. Perfect for busy nights or when you want a little taste of southern comfort food with minimal fuss.

I first made this recipe when I needed a cozy meal for my family after a long day, and now it’s requested regularly because it feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti: twelve ounces cooked al dente provides the pasta base with just the right firmness
• Cooked chicken: two cups shredded or diced add hearty protein and a meaty texture
• Ricotta cheese: one cup adds creaminess and mild tanginess, opt for whole milk ricotta for richness
• Sour cream: one cup gives a smooth, velvety finish, balances savory flavors
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: two cups offers melty gooeyness, half mixed in and half for topping
• Marinara sauce: one cup adds acidity and a burst of tomato flavor, choose a quality brand or homemade if possible
• Grated Parmesan cheese: half a cup enhances umami and sharpness, freshly grated is best
• Garlic: two cloves minced brings aromatic warmth, fresh cloves provide the most flavor
• Italian seasoning: a half teaspoon infuses herbaceous notes typical of southern cuisine
• Salt and pepper: to taste essential for seasoning everything evenly
• Olive oil: one tablespoon used to grease the baking dish and add a bit of richness

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventyfive degrees Celsius. This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature for baking while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until just al dente, usually about eight to ten minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you make the creamy sauce. This prevents overcooking and keeps the pasta firm under the cheese and sauce.

Prepare the Creamy Mixture:

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and uniform. The garlic infuses the creaminess with a gentle kick while the seasoning layers in southern inspired flavor notes.

Add Chicken and Cheese:

Fold the shredded chicken and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese gently into the creamy mixture. This distributes protein evenly and adds pockets of melted cheese that enrich the texture of the bake.

Combine Pasta and Creamy Sauce:

Carefully fold the cooked spaghetti into the creamy chicken mixture making sure each strand is coated thoroughly. This step is crucial for every bite to carry that luscious flavor and comforting mouthfeel.

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with the tablespoon of olive oil. This prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness to the edges of the bake. Pour the creamy spaghetti mixture into the dish spreading it evenly.

Add Marinara and Cheese Topping:

Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the pasta mixture, using a spoon to swirl it gently creating a marbled, tangy topping. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the surface. These cheeses will form a bubbling, golden crust as it bakes.

Bake the Dish:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for twentyfive to thirty minutes. You want the cheese topping to melt completely and turn bubbly golden brown, signaling it is ready to come out of the oven.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the bake to cool for five to ten minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting time helps the layers settle and makes it easier to cut and serve without losing its creamy structure.

This dish reminds me of the first time I served it at a family gathering. The way the bubbly cheese pulled apart and the subtle garlic in the creamy mix made everyone ask for seconds. The combination of ricotta and sour cream is my favorite because it creates the perfect balance of richness without feeling heavy.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. This bake reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave just avoid overcooking so the pasta remains tender. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly to preserve moisture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for tangy creaminess with less fat. Ground turkey or even cooked sausage works well instead of chicken to change up the flavor profile. Fresh basil or oregano can substitute Italian seasoning depending on your herb preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make a lovely accompaniment, perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce. A glass of chilled white wine complements the creamy texture and tomato notes nicely.

Enjoy this creamy Southern spaghetti bake warm from the oven for the best texture and flavor. It makes for a comforting family meal that reheats well for leftovers.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What type of cheese is used in this dish?

The dish features a creamy blend of ricotta, sour cream, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan for a rich, layered flavor.

→ Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute shredded chicken with cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey for a different variation.

→ How do I know when the bake is fully cooked?

Once the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, and the internal temperature is hot throughout, the dish is ready to serve.

→ Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture can introduce a pleasant heat.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bake and refrigerate it before baking. Increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.