If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with hearty chicken and pasta, then you’ve come to the right place. This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is everything you love about a classic alfredo dish, but with a baked twist that takes the flavor up a notch. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is incredibly satisfying and easier to make than you might think!
Grab your apron, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this delicious Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. Most of these items are pantry staples, so there's a good chance you already have them on hand!
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut)
Alfredo Sauce
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, but adds nice depth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Baking
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Make sure not to overcook it, as it will continue to cook while baking! Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and milk. Simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the parmesan cheese, a little at a time, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Sprinkle in the nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the sauce from heat.
Step 3: Combine the Sauce, Chicken, and Pasta
- Place the cooked pasta and shredded chicken into a large mixing bowl. Pour the alfredo sauce over the top and gently toss everything together until well coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake
- Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and additional parmesan cheese on top, covering the surface completely with cheesy goodness!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Customization
- Add veggies: Mix in some cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Try a different protein: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, Italian sausage, or even grilled tofu if you prefer.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
- Use breadcrumbs: For added texture, sprinkle some seasoned breadcrumbs or panko over the cheese topping before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake with a crisp green salad and some warm garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes a great accompaniment too.
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave, and it’ll still taste amazing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy pasta bake straight out of the oven. This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or hosting a special gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table.
Now the only question is, how soon can you make it? Bon appétit!
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