If you’re craving a comforting, indulgent dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely need to try this delightful Creamy Chicken Alfredo Baked Pasta Recipe. It’s a luscious combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne pasta, and a dreamy Alfredo sauce that bakes to bubbly, cheesy perfection. Every bite offers that silky, cheesy richness balanced with savory chicken, making it an irresistible family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create this creamy sensation. Each component plays a crucial role: the pasta provides body, the chicken adds hearty protein, and the cheeses and cream swirl together for the perfect velvety sauce that defines this dish.
- 12 oz penne pasta: Cooked al dente to hold up wonderfully under the creamy sauce and baking process.
- 3 cups diced cooked chicken: Adds protein and hearty texture; rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
- 3 tbsp butter: Forms the rich, buttery base for your Alfredo sauce.
- 2 tbsp flour: Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect creamy consistency.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: Brings a subtle aromatic punch that lifts the whole dish.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Intensifies the richness and silky mouthfeel.
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a sharp, nutty flavor that’s signature to Alfredo sauce.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully and provides that irresistible golden crust.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
- Cooking spray: To prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped: For a fresh pop of color and mild herbaceous note.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Baked Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray. This sets the stage for baking your beautiful pasta casserole and ensures easy cleanup.
Step 2: Create the Alfredo Sauce Base
In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter until it foams lightly. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown or it may become bitter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to remove the raw floury taste, creating a smooth roux that will thicken your sauce perfectly.
Step 3: Develop the Creamy Sauce
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to keep the mixture smooth and lump-free. Let the sauce cook, stirring gently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This silky consistency is the heart of your creamy chicken Alfredo baked pasta recipe.
Step 4: Add Cheeses and Season
Stir in the grated Parmesan and half a cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. The cheeses give the sauce that signature rich, savory depth synonymous with Alfredo dishes.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked penne pasta and diced chicken. Pour the warm Alfredo sauce over and gently mix until every piece is luxuriously coated. Transfer this creamy mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish for the next step.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the dish and bake uncovered for 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, sealing in all those luscious flavors. A sprinkle of chopped parsley on finishing brings a fresh touch and vibrant color to this cozy dinner.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo Baked Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a little extra grated Parmesan on top to elevate both the presentation and flavor. A light dusting of cracked black pepper can also add a subtle spice contrast that wakes up the palate.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance its richness. Think garlic-roasted broccoli or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for bright, fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, bake the pasta in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for single servings. This makes each portion feel extra special and perfect for entertaining. You can also top with toasted breadcrumbs for a delightful crunchy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy chicken Alfredo baked pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen nicely as it rests, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To prevent sauce separation, consider slightly undercooking the pasta before baking if you plan to freeze.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. If the sauce seems thick, stir in a splash of milk or cream to refresh that creamy texture and prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great because it holds the sauce well, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even rigatoni. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy after baking.
Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use part-skim mozzarella. Reducing butter slightly also helps, but keep in mind the recipe’s signature creaminess might be a bit less rich.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add your favorite veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers. The Alfredo sauce is rich enough to be satisfying on its own or with vegetables.
What kind of cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?
If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute with a similarly sharp, salty flavor. Grana Padano is another option that melts well and complements the creamy sauce.
How long does this dish take to bake?
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Baked Pasta Recipe bakes uncovered for about 20 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. This ensures the flavors meld perfectly while achieving that irresistible browned crust.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Baked Pasta Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Once you taste that rich, cheesy sauce combined with tender chicken and pasta baked to perfection, you’ll understand why it becomes a go-to weeknight favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and dive into this creamy masterpiece—you won’t regret it!
Print
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Baked Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake combines tender cooked chicken and penne pasta smothered in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, this comforting casserole is perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 oz penne pasta, cooked in salted water according to package directions
- 3 cups diced cooked chicken
Alfredo Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- Cooking spray
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and coat a 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make Roux and Cook Garlic: In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Create Alfredo Sauce: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, stirring until all cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cooked penne pasta and diced cooked chicken. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the coated pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve the bake warm for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth melting texture.
- If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch slurry.
- Adding steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms can increase the vegetable content and add extra flavor.
