Creamy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
If you’re craving the ultimate Southern-style comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole. Tender spaghetti is coated in a rich, cheesy sauce made with Rotel tomatoes, cream cheese, and shredded chicken — then baked until golden and bubbly. It’s hearty, creamy, and the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table.
This recipe is perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or when you want something easy, filling, and absolutely delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy & creamy: The sauce clings to every strand of spaghetti.
- Bold flavor: Rotel tomatoes add a tangy, zesty kick.
- Family-friendly: A casserole that feeds a crowd and makes great leftovers.
- Easy to customize: Adjust spice, cheese, and add veggies as you like.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth (adjust for creaminess)
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté onion until soft.
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Stir in Rotel tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, and chicken broth.
- Cook until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Chicken & Pasta
- Stir shredded chicken into the sauce.
- Add cooked spaghetti and mix until well coated.
- Season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
Tips for Success
- Use rotisserie chicken: Cuts prep time in half.
- Thin the sauce if needed: Add extra broth if the mixture feels too thick.
- Add heat: Use hot Rotel or stir in diced jalapeños.
- Make ahead: Assemble casserole, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations
- Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole is everything you want in comfort food: pasta for heartiness, chicken for protein, a creamy cheese sauce for indulgence, and Rotel for a pop of spice and tang. It’s rich but balanced, and best of all — it reheats beautifully, making it just as good the next day.
✨ Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor — this Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food your family will request again and again.