Description
Chicken Alfredo Casserole offers the ultimate comfort food experience. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser and a family favorite. With layers of tender pasta, shredded chicken, and a rich homemade alfredo sauce, each bite is a delicious journey into comfort and satisfaction.
Ingredients
-
For the Sauce
-
Unsalted butter
-
All-purpose flour
-
Garlic powder
-
Black pepper
-
Kosher salt
-
Whole milk
-
Unsalted chicken stock
-
Heavy cream
-
Cream cheese
-
Grated parmesan cheese
For the Casserole Assembly
-
Cooked penne pasta
-
Shredded cooked chicken
-
Shredded mozzarella cheese
-
Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
-
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating the oven to 375°F and spraying a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Sauce Sensation: In a Dutch oven or large pot, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Slowly add the milk, chicken stock, and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the cream cheese and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Mix and Layer: Add the cooked penne and shredded chicken to the pot, stirring until they are evenly coated in the luscious sauce. Pour half of the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly. For an extra golden finish, turn on the broiler and broil until golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve immediately and watch as your guests devour every last bite.
Notes
- Serve with a Side Salad: Complement the richness of the Chicken Alfredo Casserole with a fresh side salad dressed with vinaigrette. The crispness and acidity of the salad provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole, making for a well-balanced meal.
- Garnish Before Serving: Just before serving, sprinkle the casserole with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. This simple garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of herbaceous flavor to each bite.
- Portion Control: When serving the casserole, use a sharp knife to cut it into even portions. This ensures that everyone gets a fair share and helps with portion control, preventing overindulgence.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it is tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
- Reheat with Care: When reheating leftover Chicken Alfredo Casserole, do so gently to prevent the sauce from separating or becoming too dry. Cover the casserole dish with foil and reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions on a lower power setting to avoid overheating.
- Freeze for Future Enjoyment: To extend the shelf life of the casserole, consider freezing individual portions for future meals. Wrap the portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen casserole can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw Properly: When ready to enjoy frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This ensures even thawing and helps preserve the texture and flavor of the dish.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Before serving reheated leftovers, garnish with additional fresh herbs such as basil or thyme for a burst of flavor and brightness. This simple addition revitalizes the dish and gives it a fresh, homemade touch.
- Customize with Toppings: Get creative with toppings by adding crispy bacon bits, diced tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms before serving. These extra toppings add layers of texture and flavor to the casserole, elevating it to new heights of deliciousness.
- Enjoy Cold or Hot: Chicken Alfredo Casserole can be enjoyed either hot or cold, making it a versatile option for meals on the go or picnics. Serve it chilled as a refreshing summer dish or warm it up for a comforting winter meal—it’s delicious either way!