Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe
Introduction:
Looking for a comforting and easy-to-make dinner that will impress your family and guests? This Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is the perfect combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, this recipe will surely be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta and cheeses. Let’s dive into the recipe for this irresistible pasta bake!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni works best)
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great option)
- 1 jar (16 oz) Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is warm and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Pour the Alfredo sauce mixture over the pasta and chicken. Mix until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden, crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake:
- Use high-quality Alfredo sauce for the creamiest flavor.
- Swap out the chicken for turkey or shrimp for a twist.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to make it a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Will Be Your Favorite:
This Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. It’s the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or a special dinner. Your family will love the cheesy goodness, and you’ll appreciate the minimal prep time!
Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and bookmark it for later. For more delicious recipes, visit Golden Spoon Recipes.