Ingredients:

  • 16 oz spaghetti noodles
  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • 0.5 cup pasta water, reserved
  • 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 8 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 10 oz Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies, undrained
  • 2 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp smoked paprika
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prep the station. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non stick spray. Note: High heat ensures the cheese browns before the pasta overcooks.
  2. Boil the pasta. Cook 16 oz spaghetti in heavily salted water. Stop 2 minutes before the package says al dente. until noodles are flexible but still have a firm bite.
  3. Save the liquid. Carefully dip a measuring cup into the pot and reserve 0.5 cup of the starchy water. Drain the rest of the pasta.
  4. Whisk the base. In your large bowl, combine both soups, 8 oz softened cream cheese, 0.5 cup sour cream, and the reserved hot pasta water. until a smooth, pale emulsion forms.
  5. Season and spice. Fold in the undrained Rotel, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and exactly 1 cup of the shredded cheddar.
  6. Incorporate the solids. Add the 3 cups of shredded chicken and the undercooked spaghetti to the bowl.
  7. Toss thoroughly. Use tongs to lift and turn the pasta until every single strand is shimmering with sauce.
  8. Transfer and top. Spread the mixture into your dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Bake for glory. Place in the oven for 15-20 minutes. until the cheese is bubbly and the edges turn a deep golden brown. > Chef's Tip: If you want an extra layer of flavor, sauté some finely diced bell peppers and onions in butter before adding them to the sauce. It adds a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft pasta. The Best Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe in 30 Minutes — Master The Best Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe Youll Ever Make with our step-by... $img_2$