Description
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a creamy, comforting, and bold-flavored dish featuring tender shredded chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and layers of melted plant-based cheese combined with perfectly cooked al dente spaghetti. This one-dish casserole offers a delicious Southern-inspired twist with a smooth, spicy sauce made from plant-based milk, vegetable broth, and natural Worcestershire sauce. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, it delivers hearty textures and warming taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 4 cups cooked spaghetti (al dente)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
Sauces and Liquids
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
Cheese and Thickening
- 2 cups shredded plant-based cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
Spices
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook spaghetti until just al dente, then drain and set aside. In a skillet, cook and crumble smoked turkey bacon until crispy, then sauté diced onions and bell peppers until tender. Shred the cooked chicken breast and have all ingredients ready for combining.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, combine plant-based milk, vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and onion powder. Heat gently while whisking in shredded plant-based cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the natural gelling agent to thicken the sauce properly.
- Combine Everything: In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, crumbled turkey bacon, and creamy sauce. Toss gently to evenly coat the pasta and components with the sauce and distribute smoky flavor.
- Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle an extra layer of shredded plant-based cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling and golden around the edges.
- Let Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to allow the sauce and natural gelling agent to set, making it easier to slice and serve while warm and comforting.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked pasta to avoid a mushy casserole after baking.
- Toast spices lightly before adding liquids to enhance their aroma and flavor.
- Do not skip the natural gelling agent to achieve the ideal casserole texture.
- Adjust spice levels gradually to suit your heat preference.
- Allow casserole to rest before serving to ensure clean slices.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: spicy, cheesy, chicken, spaghetti, casserole, Southern, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon, comfort food, one-dish meal
