Description
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole featuring tender cooked chicken, penne pasta, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden on top, this comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne pasta (cooked in salted water according to package directions)
- 3 cups diced cooked chicken
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided use
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- Cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Roux. In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for an additional minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Milk and Cream. Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. Allow the mixture to simmer gently, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Add Cheeses and Season. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and half a cup of shredded mozzarella until fully melted. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken. In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne pasta and diced chicken. Pour the Alfredo sauce over and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Assemble in Baking Dish. Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake until bubbly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the pasta mixture is bubbly and the cheese on top has just started to brown.
- Garnish and Serve. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken from rotisserie or leftover to save time.
- Pasta should be cooked al dente before baking to avoid mushiness.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- For added flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or steamed broccoli before baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated well in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
