This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners and is sure to please the whole family.
With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, this recipe is one of the best cheesy chicken pasta casserole options out there. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or additional seasonings.
Comforting Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole
The Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole is a delightful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table.
With its bubbling cheese and golden crust, this casserole is a perfect representation of comfort food.
It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta into a hearty dish that the whole family will love.
This recipe stands out as one of the best cheesy chicken pasta casserole options, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Its rich flavors and cheesy goodness make it a go-to for those seeking easy chicken casserole recipes.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The beauty of this creamy chicken pasta casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Using cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and a blend of cheeses creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.
The addition of cream of chicken soup and sour cream contributes to the creamy base that binds everything together.
For a pop of color and nutrition, incorporating vegetables like peas or mixed veggies enhances the dish while keeping it wholesome.
This flexibility allows for customization, making it a versatile option for various tastes and preferences.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this cheesy chicken pasta bake is straightforward and quick, taking only about 15 minutes of prep time.
Begin by mixing the cooked pasta with shredded chicken and the creamy sauce ingredients in a large bowl.
This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, making it a standout among noodle casserole recipes for dinner.
Once combined, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and let the oven do the work.
The baking process not only melds the flavors but also creates that irresistible golden top that everyone loves.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the casserole is where the magic happens.
Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps to lock in moisture, ensuring the pasta remains tender.
After about 25 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheese to bubble and brown, creating a deliciously inviting appearance.
The total cooking time is approximately 35 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.
This ease of preparation is what makes the Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole a favorite among chicken pasta bake recipes easy to follow.
Serving Suggestions
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This brief resting period allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.
Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that satisfies.
This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd, serving up to six people, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or potlucks.
With its comforting nature, it’s sure to become a staple in your collection of comfort food recipes.
Why You’ll Love It
The Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a dish that brings people together.
With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and hearty ingredients, it embodies the essence of comfort food.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this casserole fits the bill perfectly.
Its adaptability means you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
This flexibility, combined with its rich flavors, makes it a beloved choice among pasta casserole recipes.
Easy Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake
This creamy chicken pasta casserole features shredded chicken mixed with pasta and a delicious cheese sauce, baked to perfection. It takes about 50 minutes to prepare and serves 6 people, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 cups shredded or diced cooked chicken
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. If using, fold in the frozen peas or mixed vegetables.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch or rounded baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy chicken pasta casserole!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g