Alma'S Spaghetti Casserole
Hearty spaghetti casserole with tender chicken, sautéed veggies, creamy Velveeta, tomato and mushroom sauce—comfort food that feeds a crowd, perfect for family gatherings and potluck parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken breasts in water until tender, then remove from bone and set aside.
- Sauté chopped celery, onions, and green peppers in oleo until softened.
- Melt Velveeta cheese with cooked spaghetti, then fold in the chicken, sautéed vegetables, canned tomatoes, canned mushrooms, frozen peas, and oleo.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, ideal for a crowd or leftovers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or milk when mixing in the Velveeta cheese. If you can't find Velveeta, a combination of cream cheese and cheddar will work well. To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it from scratch. Adding some garlic or Italian herbs can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti casserole is perfect as a standalone dish but can be paired with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside Ore-Ida Potato Bake for a comforting dinner. It’s great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alma'S Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 874 calories, with 55g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (183% of the Daily Value), protein (109% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1050mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as different shapes may require different boiling times.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or a plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking, and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the sautéed vegetables. You can also use spicy diced tomatoes or add hot sauce to the cheese mixture for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).