Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Creamy Dream: The Unforgettable Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Creamy pasta dishes always hit the spot, especially when this comforting chicken alfredo casserole recipe emerges from the oven bubbling with cheesy goodness.

Tender chicken mingles with perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, velvety sauce that promises pure satisfaction.

Layers of flavor create a hearty meal that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening.

Each forkful combines crispy edges with a luxurious, smooth center that makes dinner feel special.

The combination of simple ingredients transforms into something truly extraordinary.

Cheese lovers and pasta enthusiasts will absolutely adore this crowd-pleasing dish that comes together with minimal effort.

Chicken Alfredo Casserole Creamy Flavor Guide

  • Whip Up Comfort: Dive into a creamy, cheesy casserole that hugs your taste buds with classic flavors everyone loves.
  • Simplify Weeknight Cooking: Minimal prep and one-dish wonder makes dinner a breeze, perfect for busy families craving delicious meals.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap chicken for shrimp or add vegetables to personalize this versatile recipe that adapts to your preferences.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Potential: Guaranteed to satisfy both kids and adults, this dish works brilliantly for casual gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners.

What You Need For Alfredo Casserole

Main Ingredients:
  • Chicken: Protein that provides a hearty and filling base for the casserole.
  • Pasta: Classic carbohydrate that creates the foundation of the dish.
  • Alfredo Sauce: Creamy sauce that adds rich flavor and binds the ingredients together.
Dairy Components:
  • Heavy Cream, Butter: Ingredients that enhance the sauce's smooth and luxurious texture.
  • Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Cheeses that provide melty, golden topping and additional savory flavor.
Seasonings and Aromatics:
  • Garlic, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Spices and herbs that boost the overall taste profile of the casserole.
  • Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish that adds a fresh, bright touch to the finished dish.

Steps To Creamy Alfredo Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F, getting ready for a delicious cheesy adventure.

Step 2: Cook The Pasta

Boil the pasta until it’s perfectly tender, then drain and set it aside, ready for its flavor transformation.

Step 3: Create The Creamy Sauce

Grab a saucepan and start your magic:
  • Butter
  • Minced garlic
  • Alfredo sauce
  • Heavy cream
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Melt the butter, sizzle the garlic until it’s wonderfully fragrant.

Pour in the Alfredo sauce and cream, then sprinkle in the seasonings.

Let it simmer and get all smooth and dreamy for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Mix The Goodness

Combine your cooked chicken, pasta, and that luscious sauce in a big bowl.

Toss everything together so each bite is packed with creamy deliciousness.

Step 5: Prepare The Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Shower the top with:
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Parmesan cheese

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

Watch for the cheese to melt into a golden, bubbly blanket.

Step 7: Serve And Enjoy

Optional: Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top.

Serve hot and get ready for comfort food heaven!

Tips For A Rich Alfredo Casserole Sauce

  • Boil pasta just until al dente to maintain a perfect texture and prevent mushiness in the casserole.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow cheese to set and create a smooth, creamy top layer.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a subtle kick without overwhelming heat.
  • Replace chicken with cooked shrimp or turkey for a delightful variation of the classic recipe.
  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating gently to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.

Alfredo Casserole Twists And Options

  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with roasted cauliflower or white beans for a meat-free version that maintains creamy texture and flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure Alfredo sauce is certified gluten-free for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a zesty, heat-packed casserole that elevates the classic recipe.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the rich, creamy essence of the dish.

Serving Chicken Alfredo Casserole Warm

  • Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Serve this bubbling casserole as the star of your evening meal, surrounded by warm garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete dining experience.
  • Fresh Herb Boost: Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving to add bright, fresh flavors and a pop of green color that makes the dish look professionally prepared.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement the creamy chicken Alfredo casserole with a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio to enhance the rich, velvety texture of the dish and balance its decadent flavors.
  • Leftover Magic: Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner the next day.

Keeping Chicken Alfredo Casserole Tasty Overnight

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring maximum freshness and food safety.
  • Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly. Stop when the casserole reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.

FAQs

  • What ingredients can I substitute in this recipe?

You can replace chicken with turkey or shrimp, use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs, and swap mozzarella with cheddar or provolone cheese for different flavor profiles.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The creamy Alfredo sauce and cheesy topping make this casserole appealing to children, and it’s an easy way to incorporate protein and pasta in one dish.

  • Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking directly from the refrigerator.

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Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 23 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Creamy chicken alfredo casserole combines comforting pasta layers with rich, cheesy goodness. Hearty Italian-inspired flavors meld perfectly, promising a delightful meal you’ll savor to the last bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 3 cups (708 milliliters) cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
  • 1/4 cup (59 milliliters) cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 1 1/2 cups (170 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups (170 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 cups (473 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Pasta and Vegetables:

  • 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
  • 1 cup broccoli florets (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 375°F, preparing a greased baking dish for the casserole.
  2. Prepare pasta to al dente texture according to package guidelines, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
  3. Create a rich sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat, adding minced garlic and cooking until aromatic.
  4. Incorporate Alfredo sauce and heavy cream into the garlic butter, seasoning with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Combine cooked chicken, prepared pasta, and the creamy Alfredo sauce in a large mixing bowl, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the sauce.
  6. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
  7. Generously sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the casserole, creating a complete cheese coverage.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops a golden-brown crust.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

Notes

  • Customize pasta texture by cooking slightly less than package instructions for a firmer bite in the casserole.
  • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk to reduce calories without compromising creamy consistency.
  • Add roasted vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition and color variation in the dish.
  • Swap chicken with rotisserie chicken to save preparation time and enhance flavor depth.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 496 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 381 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg
Michael Reyes

Michael Reyes

Founder & Lead Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Southwestern and Latin American cuisine
  • Developing easy single-serving recipes
  • Food styling and food photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Practical, hands-on learning in essential kitchen skills, including food safety, hygiene, knife techniques, and kitchen organization.

Michael’s love for cooking runs deep, rooted in the bold, colorful flavors of his New Mexico upbringing.
After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Santa Fe Community College, he spent years sharpening his skills in kitchens that celebrated traditional Southwestern and Latin American dishes.
He believes cooking should feel approachable and fun, never complicated. When he’s not stirring up new recipe ideas, Michael’s out hiking scenic trails, chatting with farmers at local markets, or chasing the perfect sunset shot for inspiration.

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