Creamy Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Chicken Spaghetti with Cheesy Cream Sauce

Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 2 casseroles

Description:

This delightful Chicken Spaghetti with Cheesy Cream Sauce recipe has been passed down through generations, originating from the cherished collection of a preacher’s wife who frequently hosted gatherings and potlucks. It’s a hearty dish that yields enough to fill two casserole dishes, perfect for sharing with guests or storing one for a cozy family meal later.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 cups spaghetti noodles
• 1/2 large onion, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 quart (4 cups) milk
• 2/3 lb American cheese, grated or chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cooked chicken, deboned and shredded (approximately 4 cups)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Stew the chicken until fully cooked. Once done, debone and tear or cut into small pieces.

2. Cook Pasta and Vegetables:

   • Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package directions in the water used to boil the chicken.
   • In the same pot, add diced onions and green peppers. Cook until tender.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Drain the water from the pasta and vegetables.
   • Mix in the chunked chicken and sliced mushrooms if desired.

4. Prepare the Cream Sauce:

   • In a separate saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
   • Stir in flour and salt, cooking until smooth and bubbly.
   • Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.

5. Add Cheese:

   • Stir in grated or chopped American cheese until fully melted and blended into the sauce.

6. Combine and Bake:

   • Combine the cooked spaghetti, vegetables, chicken, and creamy cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl.
   • Transfer the mixture into one or two casserole dishes, depending on your serving needs.
   • Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until bubbly and lightly browned on top.

7. Serve:

   • Serve one casserole dish for guests while reserving the other for future family meals by freezing it.

This Chicken Spaghetti with Cheesy Cream Sauce is a comforting dish that promises to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures that make it a timeless favorite!