Description
This Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish combining tender cooked chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Enhanced with garlic and Italian seasoning, this baked casserole is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that tastes delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain thoroughly and set aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant to release its aroma and flavor.
- Cook Chicken Mixture: Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken to the skillet along with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2 minutes to blend the flavors and warm the chicken.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, sautéed chicken mixture, and frozen peas if using. Stir everything until well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture to the greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Using cooked chicken reduces prep time; rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat Alfredo sauce and cheeses.
- Frozen peas add a pop of color and subtle sweetness, but can be omitted or substituted with other veggies like spinach or broccoli.
- Make sure pasta is al dente to avoid the casserole becoming mushy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
