Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Whenever I make this Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe, it brings back cozy weekend memories with family gathered around the kitchen. That warm, spicy aroma fills the room and makes everyone instantly hungry. I first discovered this dish at a friend’s barbecue, and I was blown away by how the creamy cheese sauce and tender shredded chicken came together with just the right kick of heat. It’s one of those recipes that impresses without demanding hours of prep, so it’s become a go-to whenever I want comfort food that feels special.

This Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is unique because it balances spice with richness—bringing just enough heat to excite your taste buds without overpowering the creamy, cheesy goodness. The melted Velveeta ties everything together into that familiar, ultra-smooth sauce you’ll crave. Plus, the mix of chicken and spaghetti makes it hearty and comforting, perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends. The colors are inviting too—vibrant reds from Rotel, the golden crust, and the tender chicken strands peek through the cheesy spaghetti, making every bite a delight.

Don’t worry if you haven’t tackled casseroles like this before. I’ll walk you through each step so it’s foolproof. From perfectly cooking your spaghetti to layering the casserole just right, you’ll find tips to help you nail it on your very first try. You’ll especially love how this recipe adapts easily—use leftover chicken, swap cheeses, or adjust the spice level without losing that signature Southern charm.

Ingredients You’ll Be Working With

Before you dive in, I recommend measuring your ingredients accurately for the best results. Don’t stress—the full amounts and details are neatly organized in the printable recipe card at the end, but here’s an overview of each key component and their role.

• Spaghetti: Cooked al dente to keep a slight bite and prevent mushiness in the casserole.
• Shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, adding juicy flavor with little effort.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the cheese sauce come together smoothly.
• Velveeta cheese: Melts creamy and smooth, giving the casserole that classic cheesy texture.
• Milk: Balances the thick cheese sauce; use whole milk for best creaminess but 2% works too.
• Rotel (original): Brings spicy diced tomatoes and green chilies for layered heat without overwhelming.
• Cream of mushroom soup: Adds body, moisture, and a subtle earthiness to the casserole base.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for rounding out flavors—season carefully.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkled on top for an extra boost of sharp, melty goodness.
• Panko bread crumbs: Creates a crunchy topping that keeps the casserole from feeling heavy.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Added at serving, so you control how much extra heat you want.

If you need to tweak things, Velveeta can be swapped for another good melting cheese like Monterey Jack or even a mild cheddar blend. And if you’re avoiding mushroom soup, cream of chicken or cream of celery soups are fine stand-ins.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large stockpot or deep skillet: For melting cheese and combining ingredients smoothly without burning.
• 9×13-inch casserole dish: Perfect size for this recipe, ensures even baking and crisp topping.
• Colander: To drain spaghetti thoroughly before adding it to the casserole.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy here prevents the cheese sauce from being too thick or too runny.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: To stir the cheesy mixture evenly and spread it in the casserole dish.
• Oven mitts: Crucial for safe handling when broiling your breadcrumb topping to golden perfection.

How to Make Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Let’s get started! This recipe comes together quickly once you have your ingredients ready, so have your cooked spaghetti and shredded chicken on hand. Preheat your oven, gather your tools, and we’ll make every step smooth and simple.

1. Prep the casserole dish: Grease your 9×13-inch casserole dish generously with Crisco or butter so the cheesy mixture doesn’t stick and the edges brown nicely.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In your large stockpot, combine the butter, chunks of Velveeta cheese, Rotel, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until everything melts into a smooth, glossy sauce with no cheese lumps.
3. Combine chicken and pasta: Add your shredded chicken and cooked spaghetti right into the cheese sauce pot. Season with salt and pepper, then toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly in that luscious sauce.
4. Transfer to the casserole dish: Pour the mixture into your prepared dish and spread it out evenly. Level the top with your spoon or spatula.
5. Add topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese all over, followed by the panko breadcrumbs for crunch.
6. Bake covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. You want the casserole heated through and the cheese bubbling under the foil.
7. Broil for a crispy finish: Remove the foil and set the oven to broil. Watch carefully as you broil for 3-5 minutes, until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown and crunchy. This step is quick, so don’t walk away!
8. Rest before serving: Remove from the oven and let it sit for about five minutes. This helps the casserole set up so it slices cleanly and the flavors meld.
9. Serve with a spicy kick: Top individual portions with crushed red pepper flakes to taste for that extra Southern heat.

How to Serve

Flavor Boosters

If you want to elevate your Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole Recipe, try adding fresh chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream on top. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the richness, and extra crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce bring out the Southern spice vibe.

Perfect Pairings

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or lightly steamed veggies to balance the richness. For drinks, a cold sweet tea or a hoppy craft beer complements the cheesy warmth. If you’re feeling indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes on the side also work beautifully.

Presentation Touches

Serve this casserole straight from the baking dish for a family-style feel, or portion it into individual ramekins for a charming presentation. Garnish each portion with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. This dish also travels well, making it a favorite for potlucks and casual gatherings.

Variations & Easy Swaps

• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute Velveeta and cheddar with vegan cheese melts and use dairy-free milk and butter.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in cooked bell peppers or corn for color and added crunch.
• Heat Adjustments: Use mild Rotel if you want less spice, or boost heat with fresh jalapeños.
• Protein Swap: Try shredded turkey or cooked sausage instead of chicken for a flavor twist.
• Pasta Variations: Replace spaghetti with rotini or penne for a different texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

• Make this casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate before baking.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole covered at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
• Leftovers keep well for 3-4 days refrigerated; freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
• For frozen casserole, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F until heated through, then broil breadcrumbs as usual.

FAQs

• Can I use fresh cheese instead of Velveeta? You can, but Velveeta offers smooth melting and creaminess that’s hard to replicate. If using fresh cheese, blend with a little cream cheese or milk to maintain texture.
• Is this recipe very spicy? It has a nice Southern kick but isn’t overly hot. You can adjust spice by controlling the amount of Rotel and crushed red pepper flakes to your taste.
• Can I make this vegetarian? Yes! Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based chicken alternative and use vegetarian-friendly soup.
• What’s the best way to shred the chicken? Rotisserie chicken makes this easy—the meat pulls apart with two forks easily once cooled slightly.
• How do I avoid a soggy casserole? Make sure to drain your spaghetti well and don’t overcook it. Using panko breadcrumbs for topping also helps keep the crust crispy.

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