Description
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is a creamy and comforting casserole featuring tender penne pasta, diced cooked chicken, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce baked to perfection with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Perfect for an easy family meal, it combines cheesy goodness with savory garlic flavor and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a delicious finish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked in salted water according to package directions
- 3 cups diced cooked chicken
Alfredo 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
Additional
- Cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare 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 the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. Simmer the mixture, continuing to whisk, until the sauce has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese into the thickened sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne pasta and diced cooked chicken. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble Bake: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the top cheese has just started to brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and melting consistency.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For added vegetables, consider mixing in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms before baking.
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to avoid it becoming too soft after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta Bake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American