Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 10 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chunky salsa
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.75 cup reserved pasta water
Chicken and Cheese
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 3 cups shredded cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking; set aside.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti noodles until al dente according to package instructions. When draining, reserve 3/4 cup of the pasta water to add moisture and flavor to the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chunky salsa, black pepper, garlic powder, shredded cooked chicken, reserved pasta water, the cooked spaghetti noodles, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese. Stir well until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is fully melted and starting to brown slightly.
Notes
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breasts shredded finely for ease.
- Chunky salsa adds texture and flavor; mild or medium works well depending on your spice preference.
- If you prefer, substitute the canned soups with homemade cream sauces for a fresher taste.
- Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes before serving to set and make portioning easier.
- This dish stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American