Looking for a creamy, rich spaghetti recipe that’s easy to throw together and packed with flavor? This white sauce spaghetti with ranch seasoning and cream cheese is exactly what you need. With just a few pantry staples and a single saucepan, you can create a delicious comfort meal that’s perfect for busy nights or picky eaters.
This dish skips the red sauce entirely and leans into a velvety, ranch-flavored white sauce made from cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, and a generous sprinkle of ranch dip mix. Whether you serve it solo or top it with shredded chicken, it’s a warm and filling pasta meal your family will ask for again and again.
Ingredients:
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (family size, about 22 ounces)
- 1 block (8 ounces) of cream cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning (dip mix variety for extra ranch flavor)
- 12 ounces spaghetti noodles
- Optional: 1 to 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the White Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the cream of chicken soup and cubed cream cheese. Stir frequently until the cream cheese melts and blends smoothly into the soup. Add the ranch seasoning and stir until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti noodles directly into the saucepan with the white sauce. Toss gently until all the noodles are fully coated.
Step 4 (Optional): Add Chicken
For added protein, stir in shredded cooked chicken and allow the mixture to heat through for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Plate immediately and enjoy creamy ranch spaghetti with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Recipe Variations and Ideas
Swap the Protein
Use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breast, or even cooked ground turkey for variety.
Make It Spicy
Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
Use Different Pasta Shapes
This sauce works well with penne, fettuccine, or rotini if you don’t have spaghetti on hand.
Crock Pot Version
Combine all ingredients (including uncooked noodles) in a slow cooker with added chicken broth and cook on low for 2–3 hours until noodles are tender.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce
- Do not freeze as the cream cheese sauce may separate
Why You’ll Love This White Sauce Spaghetti
- Super creamy and indulgent
- Requires only one pan (less cleanup)
- Family-friendly flavor
- No red sauce
- Easy to adapt with add-ins
FAQs
Can I use a different soup instead of cream of chicken?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery work well too, though the flavor will slightly change.
What’s the difference between ranch seasoning and dip mix?
The dip mix usually has a stronger ranch flavor and thicker texture, which works well in this creamy sauce.
Can I make this recipe without meat?
Absolutely. It tastes great as a vegetarian dish or you can add roasted veggies like broccoli or spinach instead.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the sauce and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat and mix with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can use gluten-free pasta and check that your ranch and soup are certified gluten-free.
How do I thin out the sauce if it gets too thick?
Add a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth while stirring to loosen it up without losing flavor.
Final Thoughts
This white sauce spaghetti with ranch and cream cheese is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something creamy and cozy, this recipe is a fast and satisfying solution.