Description
This Taco Spaghetti Casserole combines the bold flavors of taco seasoning and salsa with creamy chicken and melted Mexican cheese, all baked together with tender spaghetti for a comforting and easy weeknight meal. Perfect for families, this flavorful casserole is simple to prepare and delivers a crowd-pleasing dish in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
- 2 cups Mexican blend cheese, divided
- 2 cans (10 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh chopped cilantro for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time you assemble the casserole.
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the spaghetti or angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Mix Casserole Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, 1 1/2 cups of the Mexican blend cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, and taco seasoning. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Add Pasta: Gently fold the cooked pasta into the chicken mixture until it is fully combined without breaking the noodles.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for a few minutes to set and cool slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top before serving for a fresh, herbal finish.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked ground beef or turkey for the chicken to customize the protein.
- Using salsa with your preferred level of spiciness can adjust the heat of the dish.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and verify that all canned soups are gluten-free.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
