When it comes to cozy and comforting meals, few dishes rival the indulgent delight of a Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. This hearty casserole combines the classic flavors of Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, pasta, and a melty cheese topping, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and utterly delicious. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the simple yet scrumptious recipe.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
12 oz (about 4 cups) pasta (penne or rotini work well)
3 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
If you’re using store-bought Alfredo sauce, skip to the next step. For homemade sauce, melt 1/2 cup of butter in a saucepan, add 1 cup of heavy cream, and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
Layer in the Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese evenly over the layer. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and cheese.
Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. If you like a crispy top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Slice and serve warm.
Enjoy the Comforting Bliss:
Dive into the creamy layers of pasta, chicken, and cheese, savoring the comforting flavors of this Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. Pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Benefits
The Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake offers several nutritional benefits amidst its rich and comforting profile. The dish is a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and repair, primarily coming from the shredded chicken.
Additionally, the cheeses in the recipe provide calcium, supporting bone health and contributing to overall wellness. The combination of pasta and cheese provides a satisfying dose of complex carbohydrates and fats, offering a source of sustained energy.
The inclusion of garlic and onion powder not only enhances the flavor but also brings potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and immune system support. While this dish is indulgent, when enjoyed in moderation and as part of a well-rounded diet, it can contribute to a diverse nutrient intake, making it a delightful and nourishing option for those special occasions.
The Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. With its creamy texture, savory chicken, and cheesy goodness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a wholesome, homemade meal, this Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is the perfect recipe to elevate your comfort food game. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of each bite!
Want a vegan version of this yummy recipe? Check this out! Creamy Vegan Fettuccine Chicken Alfredo
Also, check out this delicious cheesy breakfast Casserole that’s quick and easy to make! Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 4 cups pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 3 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce If you're using store-bought Alfredo sauce, skip to the next step. For homemade sauce, melt 1/2 cup of butter in a saucepan, add 1 cup of heavy cream, and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Layer in the Baking Dish: Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese evenly over the layer. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. If you like a crispy top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, but be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness. Slice and serve warm.
- Enjoy the Comforting Bliss: Dive into the creamy layers of pasta, chicken, and cheese, savoring the comforting flavors of this Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. Pair it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
