Cheesy Crack Chicken Spaghetti Bake

An Irresistible Cheesy Delight: Cheesy Crack Chicken Spaghetti Bake

If the name “Crack Chicken Spaghetti Bake” doesn’t immediately grab your attention and hint at how addictive this dish is, then we don’t know what will. This creamy, cheesy meal will have you hooked after the first bite. Everyone who tries it goes back for seconds (and thirds). It’s a battle against self-control that this spaghetti bake always wins.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a comforting blend of cheesy goodness with a savory kick from the ranch mix. It’s incredibly easy to make with a handful of pantry staples and is perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, the velveeta cheese makes the sauce irresistibly creamy.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Medium saucepan
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon

Ingredients

• 1 (16 oz.) package spaghetti
• 2 (10.75 oz.) cans cream of chicken soup
• 2 (8 oz.) packages velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (1.5 oz.) package dry ranch mix
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 1/3 cup bacon bits
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cream of chicken soup, velveeta, and chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is melted and smooth.
4. Whisk in the dry ranch mix, along with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the drained pasta and shredded chicken in the greased baking dish, then pour the cheese sauce over the top.
6. Toss everything together until evenly coated, then top with cheddar cheese and bacon bits.
7. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the dish is heated through.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the pasta is al dente before baking, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Mix the cheese sauce thoroughly to avoid any clumps.
• For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Swap out velveeta for cheddar if you prefer a sharper cheese flavor.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time on preparation.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of this cheesy delight is rich in protein from the chicken and cheese while providing a creamy, indulgent sauce that will satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What can I use instead of velveeta cheese? You can substitute with cheddar or a cheese blend of your choice for a different flavor profile.

How can I make it spicier? Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

There you have it—a cheesy crack chicken spaghetti bake that promises to be a hit with everyone at the table. Give it a try and let us know how it goes. We’d love to hear your take on this delicious dish and any creative twists you might add!