Our Alfredo Pasta Casserole with chicken is the ultimate comfort food. The bubbling, golden-brown pasta casserole fresh from the oven, the delicious creamy, cheesy flavor will make your heart dance in pure joy. Indeed, it is perfect for family gatherings, large crowds, or just satisfying the craving!
This recipe was created in hustle. The convenience of the classic creamy Alfredo sauce with the chicken and pasta can never go wrong. So we combined these and baked them into a casserole. No question, the simplicity of this casserole makes it easy to make and is loved by everyone.
If you prefer to watch the step by step recipe video, just scroll down and watch it!
The creamy alfredo sauce with the pasta and chicken give delicious taste and a lightly set, golden top that adds delightful texture to the lush, velvety layers beneath. Moreover, the best part is you can even make it ahead of time. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or preparing a dish ahead for a gathering, this casserole promises to be a repeat favorite.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Pasta Mixture
- Penne pasta: We are using dry penne pasta for this recipe. You can use any pasta of your choice. Make sure to cook it a little less than al-dante since we are baking the casserole to have a perfect al-dante texture.
- Chicken breast: We are using skinless and boneless chicken breast, cut into small cubes. You can also use the chicken thighs.
- Onion: Onion adds a sweet and oniony flavor to the casserole.
- Garlic: We love the spicy garlicky taste in the casserole.
- Mozzarella cheese: We are using mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes. It gives a little pocket of cheese on the casserole when baked.
- Salt: Salt makes the food extra savory and overall not bland tasting.
- Oil: We are using a neutral oil for cooking the chicken. You can use any oil of your choice.
The Alfredo Sauce
- Butter: Butter adds richness and buttery flavor to the sauce.
- Garlic: Garlic adds a savory and spicy garlicky kick to the alfredo sauce.
- Heavy cream: It makes the sauce super creamy and rich.
- Cheddar cheese: We are using grated cheddar cheese for the sauce. You can also use sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack cheese.
For the Topping
- Egg white: Egg white gives a crunchy top to the casserole when baked.
- Sour cream: It adds a tangy, creamy element to the casserole.
- Cheese: We are using cheddar cheese for topping. You can use any cheese of your choice.
Instructions
We highly recommend reading the recipe’s instructions thoroughly before starting. Make sure you have all of the ingredients measured out for every step in advance to make the recipe easier.
See the full preparation in the recipe card below with the complete instructions on how to prepare your kitchen and the ingredients, and then make this irresistible Alfredo Pasta Casserole with Chicken.
Alfredo Pasta Casserole With Chicken
Description
Bake the ultimate Alfredo Pasta Casserole with Chicken! A creamy homemade sauce, tender chicken, and penne pasta bake into a golden, comforting dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pasta Mixture
For the Alfredo Sauce
For the Topping
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
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Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and season lightly with salt. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked.
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Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the chicken and mix gently.
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Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, followed by the cubed mozzarella cheese. Mix everything until evenly combined. Set aside.
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In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped garlic and cook for about 30–40 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add the grated cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.
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Pour the hot Alfredo sauce over the pasta mixture in the bowl. Mix thoroughly until everything is well coated.
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Grease a baking dish with butter. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
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In a separate bowl, beat the egg white until slightly fluffy. Add the sour cream and whisk lightly until combined.
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Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
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Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 360°F. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
Equipment
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Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 520kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34g53%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 32g64%
- Calcium 280 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Pro Tips
- Cook pasta slightly under al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy after baking
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting
- Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving for cleaner slices
Substitutions and Variations
- Cheese Swap: Replace cheddar with Parmesan, Gruyère, or a blended cheese mix for a different flavor profile
- Protein Alternative: Use rotisserie chicken or cooked turkey for faster preparation
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for extra nutrients
- Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a slightly lighter sauce
