Chicken Alfredo Casserole
There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm, creamy casserole coming out of the oven, and this Chicken Alfredo Casserole is no exception. Packed with tender, shredded chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce, this dish is comfort food at its finest. It’s perfect for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or even a potluck gathering. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses adds layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to prepare and bake, this casserole brings a sense of calm to your kitchen, knowing you’re serving something delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients Overview
Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded): Use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience. The shredded texture helps it blend seamlessly with the pasta and sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Pasta (12 oz, penne or rotini): Choose pasta that can hold the sauce well, like penne or rotini. Their ridges and curves trap the creamy Alfredo, delivering maximum flavor in every forkful.
Alfredo Sauce (2 cups): A rich and creamy base for the casserole. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own if you prefer.
Ricotta Cheese (1 cup): Adds a creamy, slightly tangy layer that complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce. It also helps bind the casserole together.
Mozzarella Cheese (2 cups, shredded): A classic melting cheese that adds gooey goodness to the casserole. It’s used both inside the mixture and on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds a nutty, savory flavor that enhances the dish. It melts beautifully and helps create a slightly crispy topping.
Parsley (¼ cup, chopped): Fresh parsley brightens the dish with its fresh, slightly peppery taste and adds a pop of color.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the casserole bakes evenly and reaches the perfect bubbly, golden-brown finish.
Cook the Pasta
Step 2: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Al dente pasta will continue to cook in the oven and soak up the Alfredo sauce, becoming perfectly tender.
Prepare the Casserole Mixture
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, ricotta cheese, and 1½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with the creamy sauce.
Season the Mixture
Step 4: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, both the Alfredo sauce and cheeses contain salt, so taste before adding too much.
Assemble the Casserole
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, pressing it down gently to ensure there are no air pockets.
Add the Cheese Topping
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This will create a delicious, golden, cheesy crust as it bakes.
Bake the Casserole
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown. The dish is ready when the edges are slightly crispy, and the center is hot and melted.
Garnish and Serve
Step 8: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.
