Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Pasta Casserole

If you’re craving a dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and vibrant broccoli, look no further than this Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Pasta Casserole. It’s comfort food at its finest, bringing together penne pasta smothered in rich Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, and a trio of cheeses baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual dinner, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Pasta Casserole apart is the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The creamy Alfredo sauce envelops every bite of pasta and chicken, while the broccoli adds a fresh, slightly crisp contrast. The combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses provides a complex cheesy flavor and a beautiful golden crust after baking. Plus, the addition of turkey bacon bits adds a smoky, savory crunch without overpowering the dish. This casserole is both hearty and wholesome, making it the perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

What to Buy

• 8 oz penne pasta – the perfect shape for catching the creamy sauce.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded – rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh or frozen, lightly steamed.
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce – homemade or store-bought for ease.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for meltiness and stretch.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for sharpness and color.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a nutty, salty depth.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – for subtle savory notes.
• 1 tsp onion powder – enhances the flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper – to taste.
• 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled – adds smoky crunch.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – to sauté and bring ingredients together.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot – to boil the pasta and steam broccoli.
• Colander – for draining pasta and broccoli.
• Mixing bowl – to combine pasta, chicken, broccoli, and sauce.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch) – to bake the casserole evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for mixing.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy.
• Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot dishes.

Cooking Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Pasta Casserole: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Broccoli

Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in the broccoli florets to steam them lightly. Once cooked, drain both the pasta and broccoli in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce and Seasonings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure even seasoning throughout the sauce.

Step 3: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Broccoli

Add the cooked penne pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and half of the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses into the bowl with the Alfredo sauce. Drizzle in the olive oil. Gently fold everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated with the sauce and cheese.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan evenly over the top. Finish by scattering the cooked and crumbled turkey bacon over the cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes—just watch it closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to portion. Serve it up with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

If You’re Out Of…

• Shredded chicken: Use cooked turkey or a plant-based chicken substitute for a twist.
• Broccoli florets: Substitute with cauliflower or green beans.
• Alfredo sauce: Mix cream cheese with milk and a bit of garlic powder for a quick homemade alternative.
• Cheddar cheese: Swap with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
• Turkey bacon: Use smoked turkey sausage or omit entirely and add extra Parmesan for savory depth.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Be careful not to add too much salt, especially if your Alfredo sauce is already salted.
• Avoid skipping the olive oil—it helps keep the casserole moist and prevents sticking.
• Don’t forget to let the casserole rest after baking; cutting it too soon will cause it to fall apart.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Pasta Casserole freezes beautifully. To store, let the casserole cool completely after baking. Portion it into airtight containers or cover the entire baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

Questions People Ask

Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?

Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding the sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or rotini work just as well. Just ensure you cook the pasta al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and turkey bacon, and consider adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also use a plant-based chicken substitute to keep the protein content.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, bake it as directed. This makes it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prepping.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place the entire casserole in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk or cream before reheating can help restore creaminess.

You Might Also Like

• Baked Chicken Ziti Alfredo – another creamy, cheesy favorite with a twist on pasta shape.
• Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine – a seafood take on classic Alfredo that’s rich and satisfying.
• Four Cheese Baked Ziti – for when you want an extra cheesy baked pasta dish packed with flavor.

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe and tips for making this Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Pasta Casserole, gather your ingredients and make it your own. Experiment by adding your favorite veggies or swapping cheeses to suit your palate. Share this creamy, cheesy casserole with friends and family for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and check out the other delicious dishes linked above to keep your dinner rotation fresh and exciting.

This dish is a blend of simplicity and indulgence, perfect for anyone who loves pasta but wants a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Enjoy every bite!

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