Description
The Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole is a warm, bold, and comforting dish that combines smoky turkey bacon, creamy plant-based cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in zesty natural flavors. This southern-inspired casserole features a spicy twist with paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper, creating a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that is easy to customize and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz good quality spaghetti
Protein
- 2 cups cooked shredded or chopped chicken
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
Cheese & Sauces
- 1½ cups plant-based cheese, shredded or cubed
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Other
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the smoked turkey bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove and place on paper towels to drain fat, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil if needed and sauté diced onions, garlic, and green bell pepper until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Add crushed tomatoes, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper into the skillet with the vegetables. Simmer gently for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
- Mix Chicken and Bacon: Stir in shredded chicken and chopped turkey bacon, allowing them to soak up the sauce thoroughly.
- Add Cheese and Natural Gelling Agent: Lower the heat, then fold in plant-based cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent to help set the casserole during baking.
- Combine with Spaghetti and Transfer: Mix the cooked spaghetti into the sauce thoroughly. Pour the whole mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Bake Until Bubbling: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish with fresh parsley sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Slightly undercook the spaghetti as it will continue to soften in the oven.
- Use a blend of sharp and mild plant-based cheeses for depth and creaminess.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving so it sets and slices beautifully.
- For an extra crispy top, consider broiling the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: spicy, southern, cheesy, chicken, spaghetti, casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, comfort food
