Ultimate Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

Ultimate Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy some proper comfort food, yeah? This chicken pasta casserole bake easy recipe is exactly what you need. It's cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavour. You'll be hooked after the first bite.
Brief Overview
Chicken pasta casserole is proper American comfort food. It's easy to make and trace its roots back to Italian-American cooking.
It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, and this recipe makes 6 servings. Perfect for a family dinner.
Main Benefits
This casserole is pure comfort and joy. The rotisserie chicken casserole part is that it's packed with protein. Great for a weeknight when you need something quick.
It’s proper champion because everyone loves it, even fussy eaters.
Okay, let's get this show on the road! Based on the chicken pasta casserole bake easy recipe and description, I'll whip up a list of 10 designed to help this casserole rank like a champ.
Why You'll Love This Cheesy Chicken Pasta Recipe
Honestly, this easy chicken casserole recipe is so simple, it's almost cheating. You chuck everything in a dish, bake it, and boom.
Deliciousness. No need to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights, innit?
Ingredient Spotlight
Let's talk ingredients. You'll need cooked pasta, cooked chicken (rotisserie is a lifesaver), and a few other bits. We’re talking onion, garlic, peas, soup, sour cream, milk, and cheese.
Easy peasy. Proper good stuff to create a dish worth trying.
Essential Equipment
You don't need any fancy kit for this chicken pasta bake recipe . Just a baking dish, a large bowl, and a skillet.
Standard stuff. You might get away with one pan one pan chicken pasta bake , just depends on what you prefer init?
Get Ready to Bake!
Ready to get baking? I've made this comfort food casserole countless times. It always goes down a storm. Once, I accidentally used double cream instead of milk.
Oh my gosh! It was so rich, but still delicious. Honestly, you can’t really mess this up. It's that quick chicken pasta casserole simple.
Ingredients & Equipment: Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake Easy
Okay, let's get this show on the road! This chicken pasta casserole bake easy recipe is all about simplicity. You don't need fancy ingredients or chef skills.
It is straightforward, using readily available ingredients and simple techniques. We're aiming for maximum flavor with minimum fuss. Think proper comfort food.
Main Ingredients for Casserole Greatness
Here is what you need. We're talking about the building blocks of your chicken pasta bake recipe .
- Cooked Pasta: 3 cups (720ml) . Penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work best. It’s great to use fresh pasta.
- Cooked Chicken: 2 cups (480ml) . Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver. Quality means juicy, not dry chicken.
- Olive Oil or Butter: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Use your favorite!
- Onion: 1 small , diced (approx. ½ cup/120ml )
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced
- Frozen Peas: 1 cup (240ml) . Or mixed veg!
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz/298g) . Cream of mushroom works too.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: ½ cup (120ml) . This makes it creamy chicken pasta bake .
- Milk: ½ cup (120ml) .
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups (360ml) , divided. More is always better.
Seasoning Notes: The Flavour Bomb
Spices can take things to the next level. It is important to have essential spice combinations .
- Italian Seasoning: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) . A must for that comfort food casserole flavor!
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Don't be shy!
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a kick.
Seriously, don't skimp on the seasoning. A little goes a long way. If you are not a fan of Italian seasoning try using fresh herbs, for example thyme, rosemary, oregano.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You won't need a ton of fancy gadgets for this easy chicken casserole recipe . Basic tools do the job.
- 9x13-inch (23x33cm) Baking Dish. This is crucial.
- Large Bowl. For mixing.
- Skillet. To sauté the onion and garlic.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons.
- Cutting Board and Knife. For chopping.
If you do not have a skillet try using a pot. You can mix everything in that pot. I am telling you this quick chicken pasta casserole is super easy.
I really think that easy chicken casserole recipe is what everyone needs sometimes. It is really easy to prepare, tasty and it doesn't take much of my time.
I usually prepare that dish when I am busy or don't feel like spending all day in the kitchen. What is your favorite dish?
The Secret to the Ultimate Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake Easy
Okay, let's get this show on the road! I'm gonna let you in on my family's favourite chicken pasta casserole bake easy .
I've tweaked and perfected it over the years. It's so easy. It is comfort food that your family will always ask for.
Easy chicken casserole recipe is the first words they will scream! Honestly, this is my go-to when I need a quick and hearty meal.
Ready?
Prep Steps: Your Secret Weapon
First things first, mise en place. This is French for "everything in its place." Sounds fancy, right? It's just a fancy term to getting everything ready.
Get your ingredients out. Chop the onions. Measure your cheese. Trust me, this step is a game changer. As this recipe calls for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken casserole , save even more time.
Get the chicken pasta bake recipe ingredients out!.
Safety Reminder: Don't forget to wash your hands before you begin!
Making Magic: Step-by-Step Instructions
This chicken pasta casserole bake easy is so straightforward. Even the worst cook can make it. Here's how it's done:
- Preheat oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Grease that 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté onion in 1 tablespoon olive oil until soft. Toss in minced garlic, cook until fragrant. Don't let it burn!
- In a big bowl, mix 3 cups cooked pasta, 2 cups chicken, sautéed goodness, 1 cup frozen peas, 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup milk, 1 cup cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour into the baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
- Optional: Mix 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 25- 30 minutes , until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Casserole Game
Want to make this creamy chicken pasta bake amazing? Here's some help.
- Pro Tip #1: Slightly undercook the pasta. It keeps it from getting mushy in the oven.
- Pro Tip #2: Don't drown it in milk! Too much milk makes the casserole go all bad.
- Common Mistake: Burning the cheese on top. If it's getting too dark, cover it loosely with foil. Based on the "chicken pasta casserole bake easy" recipe and description, I'll whip up a list of 10 designed to help this casserole rank like a champ. I'll start with the provided list and then get creative if necessary. Think of it like adding a sprinkle of parmesan on top – it just makes everything better! Here are my top 10 :
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You know? This quick chicken pasta casserole bake is perfect. I love that it's a weeknight dinner casserole , and there's a cheesy chicken pasta recipe , this is amazing.
I'm all about one pan chicken pasta bake and it's a family tradition at our table, a true comfort food casserole that's both satisfying and easy to clean up afterwards.
Recipe Notes: Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake Easy
Okay, let's get this show on the road! This chicken pasta casserole bake easy recipe is a total winner. But before you dive in, let's chat about some tips and tricks to make it your masterpiece.
I mean, honestly, a good chicken pasta bake recipe is always a crowd-pleaser, right?
Serving Suggestions: Ace the Presentation
Plating matters, my friends. Don't just slap it on a plate! A sprinkle of fresh parsley goes a long way.
I like to serve this comfort food casserole with a simple side salad. The vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.
And garlic bread , oh my gosh , is always a yes. Maybe roast some veggies for a healthy side.
Roasted broccoli? Yes, please!
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh
Got leftovers of this easy chicken casserole recipe ? Lucky you! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or oven until it's heated through. Freezing is also an option! Wrap individual portions tightly in foil and freeze.
Reheat in the oven for best results. Pro tip: Add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
Variations: Make It Your Own
Want to shake things up in this creamy chicken pasta bake ? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Or, use sautéed mushrooms instead of chicken for a vegetarian twist. Make it gluten-free with gluten-free pasta. Easy peasy! I use cream of celery as a Cream of Mushroom sub.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside
Each serving of this quick chicken pasta casserole is estimated to have around 450-550 calories, 30-35g of protein, 25-30g of fat, and 30-40g of carbohydrates.
It's packed with protein from the chicken and cheese. Plus, you get some veggies in there too! Remember, this is just an estimate.
This one pan chicken pasta bake is more than just a meal; it's a hug in a dish. Now you are ready to enjoy this weeknight dinner casserole and the cheesy chicken pasta recipe .
So go ahead, give it a go and make a delicious baked pasta casserole dish ! You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chicken pasta casserole bake easy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. It's like prepping for a Great British Bake Off showstopper, but way less stressful!
What's the best way to store leftovers of this ultimate chicken pasta casserole bake?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger portions in the oven until warmed through. Think of it as a delightful lunch all week, better than a sad desk salad!
I'm looking for a really easy chicken pasta casserole bake – can I use pre-cooked ingredients to save time?
Definitely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and pre-cooked pasta will significantly cut down on prep time. You can even buy pre-diced onions and garlic to make it even faster! It's the equivalent of using store-bought pastry for a pie – nobody will judge, and you'll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Remember, ready-made pasta sauce works well, too!
Can I freeze this chicken pasta casserole bake easy recipe?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. It's like having a secret weapon for a busy week, ready to deploy when you need comfort food the most!
I want to make this healthier – what substitutions can I make in this Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake easy recipe?
You can easily lighten this up! Use whole wheat pasta, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream, and use reduced-fat cheese. Adding extra vegetables like broccoli or spinach will also boost the nutritional value. It's all about balance – a little indulgence with a healthy twist, just like a balanced English breakfast!
My family isn't a huge fan of cheddar cheese. What other cheeses work well in this easy chicken pasta casserole bake recipe?
No problem! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, provolone, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious in this casserole. A little Parmesan grated on top adds a lovely salty and nutty flavor too! Experiment with your family's favorites – think of it as your own personal cheese pull competition!