Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe
Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 80 reviews

If you’re in search of a hearty, creamy crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a luscious, homemade Alfredo sauce, all baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings when you want to wow without the fuss. Once you try this casserole, it will quickly climb to the top of your favorites list.

A clean, bright flat lay of the main ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Casserole arranged neatly on a light wooden or white marble surface. Include 12 ounces of dry penne and rotini pasta in a small clear glass bowl, a small vintage ceramic dish with 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, three fresh garlic cloves whole and minced on a wooden cutting board, a small white bowl with 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, a glass measuring cup filled with 2 cups whole milk beside a small cream pitcher holding 1 cup heavy cream. Display a small ramekin of finely grated Parmesan cheese with a small wooden spoon, a pinch bowl with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, and a small dish lightly dusted with 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Add a rustic bowl with 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken, next to a bowl of 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. Finally, include a small bowl of finely chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Highlight the creamy whites, soft yellows of butter and cheese, and natural textures of garlic, chicken, and pasta. Soft natural lighting, minimal shadows, gentle contrast to emphasize textures and fresh ingredients, styled with a few sprigs of parsley casually placed around. Overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1 this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in flavor, texture, and that beautiful creamy consistency makes this casserole both straightforward and irresistibly delicious.

  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta: These shapes hold the sauce beautifully while providing great bite and texture.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for your Alfredo sauce, lending richness and depth.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of aromatic flavor that wakes up the entire dish.
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the sauce into that perfect creamy consistency.
  • 2 cups whole milk: Gives the sauce a silky smoothness and mild flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to decadence, making your casserole luxuriously creamy.
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp, salty, and nutty, it’s the heart of the sauce’s signature flavor.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors perfectly.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A subtle mix of herbs that add fragrant complexity without overpowering.
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Tender protein that blends beautifully with the creamy sauce.
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to form that irresistible golden, bubbly crust on top.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of green and flavor at the end.

How to Make Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook the pasta in salted water until just al dente—this means the pasta should still have a slight bite since it will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside, avoiding overcooking to keep a perfect texture in the final dish.

Step 2: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Let it cook for about a minute until fragrant but not browned. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to create a roux, cooking for another minute to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. After about 4 to 5 minutes, the sauce will thicken and become silky smooth.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts into creamy goodness. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, adjusting to taste. This step is crucial for building the signature savory layers of this casserole.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked pasta and shredded or diced chicken into the Alfredo sauce, making sure every piece is coated in that irresistible creaminess. This mixture is the heart and soul of the Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe, combining tender protein, pasta, and the velvety sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the creamy pasta and chicken blend into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top to achieve that golden, bubbly crust. Bake uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. For an extra touch of perfection, broil for 2 to 3 minutes to get a beautifully browned top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set up and make plating easier.

How to Serve Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is a wonderful simple garnish that brightens the creamy richness and adds a fresh color contrast. For an extra flavor pop, sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan just before serving.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, steamed or roasted vegetables, or even a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. Light sides balance the richness and make the whole meal feel complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this casserole family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy, communal feel, or portion it out on individual plates and add a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of good olive oil for a restaurant-quality touch that still feels homey.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen with time, making leftovers just as satisfying as the first serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Assemble, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. This makes it perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to retain moisture, for 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and rotini work great for holding sauce, you can use any pasta shape you prefer or have on hand. Just be sure to cook it al dente before mixing it in to avoid mushiness.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can swap the chicken for vegetables like steamed broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach to keep it hearty and vegetarian while still creamy and flavorful.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch?

While store-bought Alfredo sauce can save time, making the sauce from scratch as in this recipe results in a fresher and more vibrant flavor, which truly elevates the dish.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?

Look for the mozzarella cheese on top to be fully melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. The casserole should be heated through—if you’re uncertain, a quick poke with a knife should feel warm to the touch.

What are some good additions to customize this casserole?

Feel free to stir in cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or roasted red peppers. You can also add a bit of crushed red pepper for heat or swap mozzarella for a different melting cheese such as fontina or provolone for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

You can’t go wrong with this Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe when it comes to comfort food that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, yet surprisingly simple to pull together. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your home—perfect for those days when you want a bit of indulgence with minimal fuss.

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Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 80 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Best Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a creamy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing baked dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this casserole offers a deliciously cheesy and hearty meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Other

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente, then drain and set aside. This ensures the pasta finishes cooking perfectly in the casserole.
  3. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to make a roux, which thickens the sauce.
  4. Add Liquids: Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  6. Combine and Assemble: Add the cooked pasta and shredded or diced chicken to the sauce, mixing well to coat everything evenly. Pour this mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Add Mozzarella and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Broil for Finish: Optional—broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end to get a golden, slightly crispy cheese topping. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh touch.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
  • Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for extra vegetables and nutrition.
  • For make-ahead convenience, assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

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