Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake Recipe
This Chicken Alfredo Bake is a comforting and creamy casserole combining tender cooked chicken, al dente bow-tie pasta, and a rich homemade Alfredo sauce topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to bubbly perfection and optionally broiled for a golden cheese crust, it’s a perfect hearty meal for family dinners or make-ahead meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 1 pound cooked chopped chicken (about 3 breasts)
- 5 cups bow-tie pasta (or penne, about 12 ounces, cooked al dente)
Alfredo Sauce
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (1-2%)
- 1 ½ cups half and half
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish: In a 9×13-inch baking dish or two 8×8-inch dishes, combine the cooked chopped chicken and cooked bow-tie pasta. Set aside the shredded cheeses for topping.
- Make the Alfredo sauce base: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter evenly. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute to release its aroma but not burn.
- Thicken the sauce: Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the flour is absorbed and the mixture forms a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Add the dairy: Gradually whisk in the milk and half and half until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Season and enrich: Stir in salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook over medium-low heat, whisking frequently until the sauce thickens and is smooth, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Combine sauce with chicken and pasta: Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the chicken and pasta in the baking dish, mixing gently if needed to distribute the sauce.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until heated through and bubbling.
- Broil for golden top (optional): Remove the foil and broil for 2 to 3 minutes if desired, to brown the cheese crust. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let sit for a few minutes before serving hot and cheesy Alfredo bake.
Notes
- Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated and reheat covered for a creamy meal later.
- Use low-fat dairy options to reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.
- Adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli can enhance nutrition and flavor.
- Keep an eye during broiling to prevent cheese from burning.
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo Bake, creamy chicken casserole, baked pasta with Alfredo sauce, comfort food, easy dinner recipe
Find it online: https://spatulaqueen.com/creamy-chicken-alfredo-bake-recipe/
