Description
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and perfectly cooked spaghetti in a rich, spicy plant-based cheese sauce with a natural gelling agent. This comforting casserole offers bold Southern flavors, creamy texture, and a delightful kick, making it perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Pasta
- 2 cups shredded chicken breast
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
- 8 oz spaghetti
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (shredded or sliced)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for tossing spaghetti)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Turkey Bacon: Cook the chicken breast until tender, then shred it into pieces. In a separate pan, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp, then chop into bite-sized pieces to add a smoky crunch.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking while preparing the sauce.
- Make the Spicy Cheese Sauce: Sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers in a pan until soft and fragrant. Stir in the plant-based cheese and natural gelling agent. Add apple cider vinegar (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook gently until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and thickened.
- Combine and Bake: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked turkey bacon, spaghetti, and the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to coat every strand of pasta. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld and the texture settle. Garnish as desired before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly ground spices for a more vibrant flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta; keep it slightly firm to avoid mushiness once baked.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to control the level of spiciness.
- Sauté onions and peppers first to build a flavorful base for the sauce.
- Let the casserole rest after baking for perfect consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: spicy chicken casserole, cheesy spaghetti casserole, southern comfort food, plant-based cheese casserole, turkey bacon casserole, creamy pasta bake
