Description
This creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake combines tender penne pasta, diced cooked chicken, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese and baked to bubbly perfection. A comforting and delicious casserole perfect for a family dinner or cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced
Alfredo Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 3-quart baking dish to prepare it for the bake.
- Cook Pasta: Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux, ensuring it does not brown.
- Add Dairy: Gradually pour in whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to achieve a smooth mixture. Simmer the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in Parmesan cheese and half a cup of the shredded mozzarella until melted and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked penne pasta, diced chicken, and Alfredo sauce until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Broil for Golden Topping: For a beautifully golden and slightly crispy top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve the Chicken Alfredo Bake warm for best flavor and comfort.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Broiling time is short, so watch closely to avoid burning the cheese topping.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
