If you are searching for a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth dinner that brings everyone to the table with smiles, you absolutely have to try Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe. This dish is all about creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped around tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, baked to bubbling golden perfection. Every bite delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, making it a beloved family favorite and a glorious comfort food classic. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become your go-to casserole for weeknights or special gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role—from creating that rich, creamy sauce to adding a hint of heat and that irresistible cheesy crust on top. Nothing fancy, just reliable staples that come together to form an unforgettable meal.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Bite-sized pieces provide a hearty protein boost and soak up the cheesy sauce beautifully.
- 4 cups cooked pasta: Choose penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni for their ability to hold sauce between every nook and cranny.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps develop the base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 small onion: Finely chopped for subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic brings a warm aromatic note that elevates the casserole.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce to luscious perfection.
- ½ cup sour cream: Introduces a slight tanginess that balances the cheese’s richness.
- 1 cup milk: Helps create a smooth and creamy sauce base.
- 3 cups shredded cheese: A mix of cheddar, Colby Jack, and Swiss offers melty, gooey, and flavorful coverage for every bite.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just the right touch of heat to keep things interesting.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cheese Sauce
Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add your finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking them gently until they soften and release their wonderful aroma. Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly for about a minute—this little step helps create that silky smooth sauce. Slowly whisk in the milk and sour cream to avoid lumps. Keep stirring and bring it to a simmer until the sauce thickens beautifully. Remove the pan from heat and mix in 2 ½ cups of shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy blanket of flavor.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Now it’s time to bring your casserole to life. To the luscious cheese sauce, add the cooked chicken pieces and cooked pasta. Season everything with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste, stirring gently but thoroughly so every bite is packed with flavor. This creamy, cheesy mixture is pure comfort in the making.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and pour the cheesy chicken and pasta mixture inside. To finish it off, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly on top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese on top is a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting.
How to Serve Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet elegant finish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top right before serving. The bright green not only adds a lovely pop of color but also a fresh contrast to the velvety, cheesy casserole. You can even add a light dusting of paprika for some visual warmth and an extra hint of flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole is so rich and satisfying, you’ll want to pair it with something fresh and crisp. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creamy texture beautifully. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans complement the dish perfectly as well. If you want something a bit more indulgent, garlic bread or soft dinner rolls make a fantastic accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole straight from the baking dish family-style for a warm, inviting feel. Alternatively, scoop it into individual ramekins for a personalized touch—perfect for dinner parties or cozy date nights. You can even try layering it in a clear glass casserole dish to show off the inviting layers of pasta, chicken, and cheese sauce—making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole tastes just as good reheated, with the flavors having melded even more overnight.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully! Prepare the casserole through step two (combining all ingredients but before baking), then cover tightly with foil and freeze. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed—adding a few extra minutes if needed. Freezing is a perfect way to keep this flavorful meal on hand for busy days.
Reheating
For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm throughout, or place the entire casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. If the top looks dry, add a sprinkle of extra cheese or a dab of butter before reheating for that fresh-from-the-oven experience.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the original recipe suggests penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand. Just make sure it holds sauce well and is cooked al dente before mixing.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add hearty veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers. You can also add plant-based protein options to keep it filling and nutritious.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze.
What type of cheese works best in this casserole?
A combination of cheeses like cheddar, Colby Jack, and Swiss provides the best melt and flavor profile, but you can adjust according to your taste or what you have available. Monterey Jack or mozzarella also work well.
How spicy is this casserole with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle kick without overpowering the dish. If you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce or omit them; for more heat, increase slightly.
Final Thoughts
If you want a home-cooked meal that feels like a warm hug, Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and decadent cheese topping, it’s a dish that comforts and delights every time. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and share it with those you love—you’ll understand why it’s such a cherished classic in the Paula Deen collection!
Print
Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is a comforting, cheesy baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken, hearty pasta, and a creamy cheese sauce infused with garlic and onion. It’s perfect for a family dinner, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni), drained
Sauce and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, or a combination), divided
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make Sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in milk and sour cream until the mixture becomes smooth. Continue to cook and stir constantly, bringing it to a simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in 2 ½ cups of shredded cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken pieces, cooked pasta, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined chicken, pasta, and cheese sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top to create a golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese topping has turned a delicious golden brown.
Notes
- You can use any short pasta such as penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni for this casserole.
- Feel free to mix cheeses like cheddar, Colby Jack, and Swiss for the best flavor combination.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference; omit for a milder dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
