Description
Chicken Alfredo Bake is a creamy and cheesy pasta dish featuring penne pasta, tender cooked chicken, and a rich Alfredo sauce. Topped with mozzarella cheese and baked until bubbly and golden, this comforting meal serves six and is perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked in salted water according to package directions
- 3 cups diced cooked chicken
Alfredo Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided use
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional
- Cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Roux and Garlic Base: Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux that will thicken the sauce.
- Add Dairy and Thicken Sauce: Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Simmer the mixture until the sauce just thickens, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Seasoning: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until all cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Toss Pasta and Chicken with Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and diced chicken. Pour the Alfredo sauce over them and toss gently to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the pasta is bubbly and the cheese on top begins to brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped parsley over the baked dish for a fresh touch. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with half-and-half or milk of choice, but the sauce may be less rich.
- Cook pasta just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms in step 5 for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and smoother melting in the sauce.
- Let the bake rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
