This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is like a warm hug in a dish! With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, it’s comfort food at its best.
It’s super easy to make—just mix, bake, and enjoy! I love serving it with a side salad. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds (and maybe thirds)! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because its twists hold onto the sauce well. However, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or bow ties will work too! Even whole wheat or gluten-free options can be substituted.
Cooked Chicken: Leftover chicken is fantastic here! Rotisserie chicken makes it easy. For a vegetarian option, try cooking some mushrooms or using chickpeas for protein instead.
Alfredo Sauce: You can make your own classic Alfredo sauce using cream, butter, and Parmesan. If you want a lighter version, low-fat cream or a heavy cream substitute like cauliflower sauce works well too!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add freshness, but if they’re out of season, use diced bell peppers or skip them altogether. They won’t alter the dish too much!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a gooey delight in this recipe. Feel free to mix in some cheddar or gouda if you enjoy a bolder flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese alternative.
How Do I Bake the Perfect Pasta Bake?
Baking the pasta is a crucial step that brings everything together and creates a deliciously cheesy top! Here are some tips:
- Make sure to preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
- Mix the pasta well with the sauce and ingredients. This helps all flavors blend together nicely.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Letting it sit for about 5 minutes allows the dish to set slightly, making serving easier.
- Keep an eye on it while baking. If the cheese starts to brown too much, you can cover the dish with foil to prevent burning.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake everyone will love!
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or dried basil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 25 minutes to bake, so in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. A quick and satisfying meal for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Cook the Pasta:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the package directions until it’s al dente, then drain it and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Chicken:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until you can smell that wonderful aroma. Then, add the bite-sized cooked chicken pieces to warm them through. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it.
3. Combine Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, chicken mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Don’t forget to include half of the shredded mozzarella cheese! Stir gently until everything is nicely coated with the sauce.
4. Add Cherry Tomatoes:
Now, gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes. They’ll add a fresh pop of color and flavor to your dish!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the pasta mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra cheesy goodness.
6. Bake and Rest:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and slightly golden. Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor. Now dig in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and comforting Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake!
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is a great choice for holding the sauce, any short pasta like penne, farfalle, or even macaroni will work well in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for the Alfredo Sauce?
If you don’t have Alfredo sauce on hand, you can make a quick homemade version using heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, a creamy white sauce or even a simple béchamel can also work in a pinch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture as needed.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Replace the chicken with your favorite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms. For added protein, consider using chickpeas or firm tofu. Just make sure to sauté the vegetables before mixing them in!
