There’s something about a bubbling casserole dish on a chilly evening in New York City that just feels like home. I remember walking into my small Brooklyn apartment after a long day, the aroma of baked cheese and smoked pimento drifting from my oven, wrapping me up like a warm Southern hug.
This Bubbly Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Smoked Pimento Cream and Jalapeño Crunch brings together the comfort of classic Southern casseroles and a modern twist of spice and texture. The creamy smoked pimento sauce, sweet corn, and pickled jalapeños create a balanced, crave-worthy bite that’s both nostalgic and new.
Whether you’re hosting Sunday dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Thanks for being here. I hope these recipes bring warmth to your kitchen and a little joy to your day.
Table of Contents
What Is a Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole?
At its heart, a Southern chicken spaghetti casserole is all about comfort — a baked pasta dish layered with creamy sauce, tender chicken, and plenty of cheese. Originating from classic Southern potluck tables, this recipe has evolved into a staple of modern American family dinners.
This version adds a smoked pimento cream sauce and a jalapeño crunch topping, giving it that irresistible depth of flavor and touch of heat that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 12 oz | Cooked al dente |
| Shredded Chicken | 2 cups | Rotisserie or leftover |
| Sweet Corn | 1 cup | Fresh or roasted |
| Baby Spinach | 2 cups | Roughly chopped |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup | Sharp preferred |
| Monterey Jack Cheese | 1 cup | Melts beautifully |
| Heavy Cream | 1 ½ cups | For creaminess |
| Cream Cheese | ½ cup | Softened |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | For roux |
| Flour | 1 tbsp | Thickens sauce |
| Smoked Pimento or Paprika | ½ tsp | For signature flavor |
| Garlic Powder | ½ tsp | Adds depth |
| Onion Powder | ½ tsp | Balances flavor |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Essential seasoning |
| Tortilla Chips | ½ cup | Crushed, for topping |
| Pickled Jalapeños | ¼ cup | Crispy slices |
| Parmesan Cheese | 2 tbsp | Optional topping |
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or olive oil.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil spaghetti in salted water until just al dente (a little firm). Drain, toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Smoked Pimento Cream Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, then slowly whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Add the cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Stir until melted and creamy.
Now stir in smoked pimento, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. The aroma at this stage is pure heaven.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add shredded chicken, sweet corn, and chopped spinach into the sauce. Stir well to coat evenly. Then fold in the cooked spaghetti until the whole mixture is silky and well blended.
Step 5: Layer and Bake
Transfer everything into your baking dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan, crushed tortilla chips, and pickled jalapeños for crunch and kick.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Pair with garlic bread or a crisp garden salad for the perfect balance.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- Effortless comfort: Simple ingredients, big Southern flavor.
- Smoky & spicy: Pimento and jalapeño make every bite pop.
- Family-friendly: Mild enough for kids, flavorful enough for adults.
- Make-ahead meal: Perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday dinners.
Expert Tips for Perfect Casserole Texture
- Don’t overcook the pasta — it’ll keep cooking in the oven.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother sauce.
- Add a touch of smoked gouda if you want extra richness.
- Crush your tortilla chips right before baking for a crisp topping.
- Let it rest before slicing — it helps everything set perfectly.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
| Storage Type | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3–4 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Wrap tightly in foil or freezer bag |
| Reheat | 350°F for 15 min | Add splash of milk if dry |
FAQs About This Recipe
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fusilli work well. Just make sure to cook them al dente.
Is it too spicy for kids?
No — the spice is mild. To reduce heat, skip the jalapeños or use plain tortilla chips.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Swap regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour in the sauce.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes — mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas add great texture and color.
How can I make it more “Southern”?
Add a few crumbles of cooked bacon or smoked sausage for that deep Southern flavor.
Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Smoked Pimento Cream (Easy Comfort Bake)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: (9×13-inch) casserole
Description
This Bubbly Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole layers tender pasta, creamy smoked pimento cheese sauce, and a crispy jalapeño-tortilla topping. A cozy Southern classic with a bold, smoky twist — perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie preferred)
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or roasted)
- 2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or smoked pimento pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips
- ¼ cup crispy pickled jalapeño slices
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the Pasta:
Boil spaghetti in salted water until just al dente. Drain, toss with a drizzle of olive oil, and set aside. - Make the Creamy Base:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux. - Build the Sauce:
Gradually whisk in heavy cream. Add cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with smoked pimento, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. - Combine Ingredients:
Fold in shredded chicken, corn, and spinach. Mix until everything is evenly coated. - Assemble the Casserole:
Add cooked spaghetti and gently toss with the sauce. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. - Add the Crunchy Topping:
Sprinkle Parmesan, crushed tortilla chips, and jalapeño slices over the top. - Bake:
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbling. - Serve:
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Notes
Storage: Chill leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make Ahead: Prepare up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
Flavor Twist: Add bacon bits or smoked gouda for extra smokiness.
Mild Option: Replace jalapeños with diced green chiles for a gentler kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Conclusion: A Comfort Classic Reinvented
There’s something magical about a dish that brings together Southern comfort and modern flavor in every bite. This Bubbly Southern Chicken Spaghetti Casserole with Smoked Pimento Cream and Jalapeño Crunch is more than just a weeknight dinner — it’s a celebration of textures and tastes.
If you loved this Southern-inspired twist, you might also enjoy our Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake — another one-pan dinner bursting with bold, rich flavors that perfectly complement this casserole’s Southern charm.
