Easy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy comfort food dinner that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and rich homemade Alfredo sauce in one easy casserole dish. Finished with melted mozzarella and baked until golden and bubbly, this family-friendly recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy weekend dinners.It’s simple to customize with vegetables, bacon, or extra seasonings, making it a versatile meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or diced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 6 slices cooked bacon crumbled
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta but avoid overcooking it.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- If making homemade Alfredo sauce, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and simmer gently before adding Parmesan cheese.
- The sauce should be smooth, creamy, and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked pasta
- Cooked chicken
- Alfredo sauce
- Half the cheese
- Seasonings
- Mix thoroughly so the sauce coats every piece of pasta.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake at 375°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- For a golden-brown top, broil for the final 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.