If you’re craving comfort food, this Chicken Alfredo Bake is the ultimate answer. Combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, this baked dish is perfect for satisfying hearty appetites. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping a make-ahead meal, this casserole will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe!
Ingredients
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
Preparation
Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, whisking constantly.
- Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, if desired.
Assemble the Bake
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add Toppings
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- If desired, add steamed broccoli or bacon bits for added flavor and texture.
Bake
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Variation Ideas
- Protein Swap: Use turkey, shrimp, or rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the Alfredo sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Cooking Notes
- For a thicker sauce, simmer the Alfredo sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before assembling the dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Chicken Alfredo Bake with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Serve with a side of garlic bread to mop up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Tips
- To save time, use store-bought Alfredo sauce, but homemade sauce offers unbeatable freshness.
- Double the recipe and freeze one batch before baking for a future meal.
- To prevent pasta from becoming mushy, undercook it by 1-2 minutes before baking.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sodium: 580mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it directly from the fridge, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
Can I freeze Chicken Alfredo Bake?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked casserole tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What’s the best pasta for Alfredo bake?
Penne or rigatoni are great choices as they hold the sauce well. Fettuccine is also delicious but may require extra care when mixing.
Conclusion
This Chicken Alfredo Bake recipe combines creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta into one irresistibly cheesy casserole. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck dish, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it tonight and bring some comfort to your table!