Chicken Alfredo Casserole

This Chicken Alfredo Casserole is everything you love about the classic Alfredo pasta but in a convenient, bake-ahead form. With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich garlicky sauce, it’s topped with gooey mozzarella that melts into perfection.

Perfect for a quick family dinner or even a cozy date night at home, this casserole brings the flavors of an Italian trattoria to your kitchen. The creamy sauce combined with the nutty Parmesan and a hint of nutmeg creates a dish that’s luxurious yet incredibly simple to make.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or fettuccine works best)
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking until smooth and thickened.
4. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and the Alfredo sauce. Mix until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Kcal: 430 kcal per serving

Recipe Highlights:

Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a luxurious twist on the classic Alfredo pasta. It combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the convenience of a one-pan dish. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a rich, flavorful experience that appeals to both adults and kids alike.

Why You’ll Love It:

1. Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients and requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for even novice cooks.
2. Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of garlic, cream, chicken, and melted cheese is a universal favorite that rarely fails to impress.
3. Customizable: You can add your favorite veggies like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to make it even more nutritious.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep this dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready. It’s also freezer-friendly for long-term storage.

Tips for Success:

1. Choose the Right Pasta: Penne and fettuccine work best for this dish as they hold the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
2. Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the sauce to ensure a smooth, velvety texture.
3. Layering for Flavor: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of smoked paprika on top of the mozzarella cheese for an extra kick of flavor.
4. Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken slightly.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a fresh green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Add a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette to scoop up every bit of the creamy sauce.
• For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve alongside a glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Nutritional Notes:

While indulgent, this dish provides protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese. For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with a mixture of half-and-half or milk and add more vegetables to increase fiber and nutrients.

Variations:

1. Seafood Alfredo Casserole: Swap the chicken for shrimp or crab for a luxurious seafood version.
2. Vegetarian Alfredo Bake: Replace chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
3. Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes to the sauce or sprinkle them on top for a spicy twist.