🛒 Ingredients Breakdown
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Thin spaghetti (broken into 2-inch pieces) | 1 lb |
| Cooked shredded chicken | 2 cups |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 2 (10.5 oz) cans |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium |
| Green bell pepper (diced) | 1 medium |
| Diced pimentos (drained) | 1 (4 oz) jar |
| Shredded sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Velveeta cheese (cubed) | 1 cup |
| Seasoned salt | 1 tsp |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
⏳ Preparation Overview
| Step | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| 🔄 Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| 🍽️ Bake Time | 35–40 minutes |
| ⏱️ Total Time | 55–60 minutes |
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt and cook the spaghetti for about 2 minutes less than the al dente time indicated on the package. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, diced onion, bell pepper, pimentos, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, Velveeta cubes, seasoned salt, cayenne pepper, and salt & black pepper to taste. Mix everything until fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 35–40 minutes until it is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.
Step 6: Let Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
🔥 Pro Tips for Success
✔️ Pasta Prep: Undercook the pasta slightly so it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
✔️ Cheese Tip: For a smoother, creamier sauce, shred the cheddar cheese yourself from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
✔️ Flavor Boost: Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat if you like a bit of spice!
🍽️ Perfect Pairings
🍗 With Chicken: Pair with a side of roasted chicken or a simple garden salad to round out the meal.
🥖 With Bread: Serve alongside some garlic bread or a crusty baguette for an even heartier meal.
🍷 With Wine: Enjoy with a crisp Chardonnay or white wine spritzer for a balanced meal.
❓ FAQs
💬 Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer.
💬 Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake as directed when ready to serve.
💬 Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! This casserole freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot.
🍽️ Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser that combines rich, creamy flavors with comforting pasta. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish will be sure to satisfy everyone at the table! 😋🧀
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