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Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 78 reviews
  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This comforting Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that’s perfect for a hearty family meal. Featuring tender cooked chicken combined with perfectly cooked pasta and a rich sauce made from butter, onions, garlic, sour cream, and cheese, this dish is baked to golden perfection with a hint of red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Chicken

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta

  • 4 cups pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni)

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup milk

Cheese and Seasoning

  • 3 cups cheese, grated (cheddar, Colby jack, or Swiss)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside to prepare for baking the casserole later.
  2. Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente, which means it should be tender but still firm to the bite. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the base flavor for the sauce.
  4. Make Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly to create a roux, which will help thicken the casserole sauce.
  5. Add Liquid and Thicken: Gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream slowly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce begins to thicken, creating a creamy base.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, grated cheese (reserve a little for topping if desired), red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
  7. Assemble: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared greased baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle any remaining cheese on top for a golden crust.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until it is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
  9. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, creamy chicken casserole!

Notes

  • Use different types of cheese to vary the flavor; a sharp cheddar will make it tangier, while Swiss is mellower.
  • Adding vegetables like peas or mushrooms can add extra nutrition and flavor.
  • You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
  • Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control spiciness.

Find it online: https://yumrecipesfood.com/cheesy-chicken-pasta-casserole-recipe/