dump and bake chicken alfredo casserole

Lemon

2 min read

·

02-02-2025

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This creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dump and bake chicken Alfredo casserole is the perfect weeknight meal. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and cleanup, yet delivers maximum flavor. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking processes; this casserole is all about simplicity and delicious results. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.

What Makes This Recipe So Special?

This isn't your average chicken Alfredo casserole. We've focused on maximizing flavor and convenience without sacrificing quality. Here's what sets it apart:

• Dump and Bake Simplicity: The name says it all! Simply dump the ingredients into a baking dish, bake, and enjoy. Minimal chopping, mixing, and fussing around.
• Rich and Creamy Alfredo Sauce: We're not skimping on the sauce. This recipe uses a combination of creamy Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade), Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream cheese for an extra decadent texture.
• Tender Chicken: Whether you use rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience or bake your own, the chicken in this casserole is always perfectly tender and juicy.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms, to boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor. Consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of Mediterranean flair.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it when you're ready. This is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!)
• 1 (16 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 cup cooked pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite shape)
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional, for a bubbly topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using). Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Add pasta: Gently fold in the cooked pasta.
4. Pour into baking dish: Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Top with mozzarella (optional): If using, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. The mozzarella, if added, should be melted and golden brown.
7. Rest: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Add vegetables: Broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, or spinach are all delicious additions. Add them along with the pasta.
• Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a truly satisfying dinner.
• Use different pasta: Experiment with different pasta shapes, such as rotini, farfalle, or shells.

Serving Suggestions:

This casserole is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with:

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing for any creamy pasta dish.
• Caesar salad: A light and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.
• Side salad with vinaigrette: A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette will complement the flavors of the casserole.

This dump and bake chicken Alfredo casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's easy enough for a busy weeknight yet impressive enough for a dinner party. Enjoy!