Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is rich without being heavy, easy to prepare, and ideal for feeding a crowd. It combines familiar pasta flavors with a cheesy twist that feels indulgent but practical. It is also forgiving, allowing for substitutions and adjustments without compromising the final result.
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Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Classic
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting baked pasta dish made with tender spaghetti, creamy sauce, savory chicken, and a cheesy Cheddar Bay biscuit–inspired topping.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (or cheddar biscuit mix)
- 1/3 cup milk (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, then gradually add milk and chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens, then stir in cheddar cheese, mozzarella, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add cooked chicken and spaghetti to the sauce and mix until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix biscuit mix, milk, melted butter, and parsley to form a thick batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
- You can add broccoli or spinach for extra vegetables.
- Cover loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Spaghetti
Spaghetti forms the backbone of the casserole. Its long strands hold the sauce well and bake evenly without becoming mushy.
Ground Beef
Ground beef provides savory depth and structure. When properly browned, it adds richness without excess grease.
Butter
Butter builds the base of the sauce and contributes a smooth, rounded mouthfeel.
Garlic
Garlic adds aromatic intensity and balances the richness of the dairy components.
All-Purpose Flour
Flour thickens the sauce, ensuring the casserole sets properly once baked.
Milk
Milk creates a creamy foundation. Whole milk works best for body and flavor.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar delivers the signature sharpness. I prefer a medium to sharp cheddar for balanced flavor.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese enhances creaminess and gives the casserole a smooth, cohesive texture.
Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning adds herbal notes that complement both the pasta and cheese.
Salt
Salt enhances all the individual flavors and should be adjusted carefully.
Black Pepper
Black pepper provides subtle warmth and contrast to the richness.
Parsley
Parsley adds freshness and visual contrast when sprinkled on top after baking.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven to 190°C and lightly greasing a large baking dish. Cook the spaghetti in well-salted water until just al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Remove excess fat and set the beef aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic briefly until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute to remove the raw taste.
Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to form a smooth sauce. Once thickened, lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until fully melted. Add the cheddar cheese and stir until smooth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Combine the cooked spaghetti, ground beef, and cheese sauce in a large bowl, mixing until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbling and lightly golden on top. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 6 people.
Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes.
Baking time is 30 minutes.
Total time required is about 50 minutes.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 175°C, covered, until warmed through. Individual portions can be reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
Variations and Customizations
This casserole is highly adaptable and can be adjusted to suit a wide range of preferences. Ground chicken or turkey can replace the beef for a lighter option. For added richness, mix in a small amount of sour cream with the sauce.
Vegetables such as spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli can be incorporated to add texture and nutritional balance. If you prefer a sharper flavor, increase the ratio of cheddar or use an extra-sharp variety. I tested this with a blend of white and yellow cheddar, and the result was both visually appealing and more complex in taste.
For a slightly crispy topping, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar on top during the final 10 minutes of baking. You can also add a light breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter for added texture.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 32 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Sauce Consistency
Keep the sauce slightly loose before baking, as it thickens in the oven.
Pasta Doneness
Cook pasta just to al dente to prevent overcooking during baking.
Cheese Selection
Grate cheese fresh for smoother melting and better texture.
Resting Time
Allow the casserole to rest before slicing to ensure clean servings.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, assemble it up to one day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I freeze Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole?
Yes, freeze it unbaked or baked for up to two months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar is ideal, but a blend with Monterey Jack also works well.
How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
Avoid overbaking and ensure the sauce is adequately creamy before baking.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the meat and add vegetables or plant-based protein.
Is this casserole spicy?
No, it is mild, but heat can be added with red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole is a dependable, comforting dish that elevates simple pantry ingredients into a cohesive and satisfying meal. Its creamy texture, balanced seasoning, and adaptability make it an excellent choice for both everyday dinners and special occasions.
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