If you are craving a comforting yet elegant dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, then this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors, capturing the richness of classic Italian cooking with the ease and warmth of a hearty casserole. Whether you’re making a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe never fails to deliver a satisfying, cheesy experience that feels just like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful combination of quality ingredients. Each component is essential—bringing texture, flavor, and that irresistible creamy allure. Here’s everything you’ll want to gather before you start cooking.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides the hearty protein base, making the casserole filling and flavorful.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended): These shapes hold the sauce beautifully and add a pleasing bite.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade): The star of the dish, this sauce lends its trademark creamy, cheesy richness.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melts to create a gooey, stretchy topping that’s pure comfort food.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and enhances the cheesy depth.
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional): Offers a pop of green color and a touch of sweetness that balances the richness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing garlic and chicken to infuse extra flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds aromatic complexity and a touch of savory warmth.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick and balances the creaminess.
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings in fragrant herbs for an authentic touch.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal note and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
First, heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly after baking. This simple step sets the stage for an easy cleanup and a beautifully browned topping.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it’s al dente—meaning it should still have a little bite. This ensures your casserole doesn’t become mushy when baked. Once cooked, drain and set the pasta aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Chicken
In a skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about a minute until you smell that irresistible aroma. Add your cooked chicken, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This quick step intensifies the flavors and warms the chicken through so every bite is bursting with savory goodness.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, sautéed chicken mixture, and optional peas if you’re adding a touch of green. Make sure everything is evenly coated — this is what makes the casserole beautifully creamy throughout.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish. Give it a little shake to level the surface, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top. These cheeses melt into a golden, bubbly crust that’s one of the most irresistible parts of the dish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown. This step melds all the flavors and textures together in one glorious, creamy package.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Garnish
Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven—this makes it easier to serve and lets the layers set nicely. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color, freshness, and herbaceous brightness.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice to garnish this casserole, adding vibrant color and a mild herbal lift. You might also try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or some red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. These simple garnishes elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise without overpowering anything.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables, or roasted asparagus to add some freshness and crunch. Garlic bread makes a delicious accompaniment too, perfect for scooping up every last creamy bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation at a dinner party, serve individual portions in ramekins or small baking dishes, topped with a sprig of fresh herb. Alternatively, layer it in a clear glass casserole dish to show off the creamy layers, creating an eye-catching centerpiece on your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, worry not—this creamy chicken Alfredo casserole tastes even better the next day. Store leftover portions in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for an easy, satisfying meal anytime.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, perfect for prepping meals in advance without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge if possible, then warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and bubbly again, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for a quick, creamy fix that tastes almost as fresh as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rotini are recommended for their ability to hold sauce well, you can use any short pasta you have on hand, like fusilli or macaroni. Just keep pasta shape in mind to ensure your casserole retains the right texture.
Is it okay to use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce works well and saves time. Just choose a good-quality sauce with rich cream and real cheese for the best flavor. You can also make your own if you prefer a homemade touch.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Frozen peas are a classic addition, but you can also add steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and color. Just be sure to lightly cook any fresh vegetables before mixing to avoid extra moisture.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace chicken with cooked mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or even tofu cubes. The creamy Alfredo sauce and cheeses provide plenty of richness, so your vegetarian casserole will be just as comforting and delicious.
What’s the best way to get a crispy topping?
For an extra crispy, golden crust, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top of the cheese before baking. This adds delightful crunch and texture contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy interior.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe is truly a keeper—easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for sharing with loved ones. Its rich, comforting flavors and lovely cheesy melt make it a dish you’ll want to return to again and again. So gather your ingredients, get cozy in the kitchen, and treat yourself and those around you to a slice of pure, creamy happiness tonight.
Print
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy and comforting Chicken Alfredo Casserole featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce, baked to golden, cheesy perfection. This easy-to-make dish combines classic Italian flavors into a hearty casserole ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Seasonings and Oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the casserole.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Chicken Mixture: Add the cooked chicken, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to the skillet with the garlic. Cook for 2 minutes to infuse flavors throughout the chicken.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, chicken mixture, and frozen peas if using. Stir everything until well mixed and evenly coated with sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- For a homemade Alfredo sauce, combine butter, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese in a saucepan, cooking until thickened.
- Substitute frozen peas with other vegetables like broccoli or spinach for variety.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To add a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
