There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole, especially on cozy nights when all you want is a dish that’s as soothing as it is satisfying. This Chicken Alfredo Casserole delivers on all fronts—packed with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, eager for seconds.
This dish is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to put together, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning ahead, this casserole holds up beautifully, making it a reliable option to reheat and enjoy any night of the week. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients:
This recipe combines classic Alfredo flavors with layers of cheesy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken tenderloin – diced into bite-sized pieces, bringing protein to the dish.
- Onion and garlic – essential aromatics that add depth and flavor.
- Italian seasoning – a perfect blend of herbs to enhance the Alfredo sauce.
- Alfredo sauce – the creamy base of the casserole; you can use store-bought or homemade.
- Mozzarella cheese – for that irresistible melty layer.
- Cooked penne pasta – the pasta of choice for a sturdy, comforting bite.
- Baby spinach – adding a touch of greens for balance.
- Parmesan cheese – sprinkled on top for a golden, crispy finish.
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, so it’s ready for baking.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced chicken tenderloin with onion and garlic. This step brings out wonderful savory flavors. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and the onions are translucent, then drain any excess liquid.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning and Alfredo sauce, letting it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole
- In a greased casserole dish, begin layering: add half of the cooked penne pasta, followed by the chicken mixture and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Next, layer some baby spinach for added nutrients.
- Repeat the layers, topping off with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be beautifully melted, with hints of crisp edges—a sure sign it’s ready to serve.
- Serve Hot and Enjoy!
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before digging in. Serve it hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy flavors.
Tips and Variations:
- Swap the Protein: If you’re in the mood for something different, try swapping the chicken with shrimp or even Italian sausage for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some steamed broccoli for more texture and flavor.
- Make it Spicy: A dash of red pepper flakes in the Alfredo sauce adds a bit of heat if you’re looking to spice things up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines hearty, classic flavors with an ease of preparation that’s perfect for busy schedules. Each bite is a comforting mix of tender pasta, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness. So, the next time you’re looking for a meal to bring warmth and joy to the dinner table, try this Chicken Alfredo Casserole—it’s bound to be a family favorite!
Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Description
Indulge in creamy, cheesy goodness with this delightful Chicken Alfredo Casserole. Perfect for cozy nights with family or a satisfying meal prep option, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenderloin, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 2 cups Alfredo sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 2 cups cooked penne pasta
– 1 cup baby spinach
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375F.
2. In a skillet, cook chicken tenderloin, onion, and garlic until chicken is cooked through and onions are translucent. Drain any excess liquid.
3. Stir in Italian seasoning and Alfredo sauce. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
4. In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the penne pasta, chicken mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Add a layer of baby spinach. Repeat layers.
5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and relish the creamy flavors.