If there’s a dinner that always guarantees empty plates and happy sighs, it’s the Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake. This irresistible casserole brings together tender pasta, juicy chicken, and smoky turkey in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s golden and bubbling from the oven. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, using up leftovers, or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this dish wraps familiar flavors in a warm, irresistible embrace.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making the Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake only requires a handful of pantry and fridge staples, but every ingredient plays a starring role! Each one adds a layer of flavor, richness, or color that takes the casserole from simple comfort food to a memorable meal.
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta: Choose a pasta shape with plenty of nooks and crannies for soaking up all that creamy, cheesy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A splash of olive oil softens the onions and helps unlock the flavor base of the dish.
- 1/2 medium onion, diced: Onions add just the right amount of sweetness and texture to balance the richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings aromatic depth and a subtle savory kick.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Use roasted, rotisserie, or leftover chicken for convenience and tenderness.
- 1 1/2 cups smoked turkey, chopped: Smoked turkey infuses the pasta bake with a deliciously deep, savory note that makes it unforgettable.
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup: This shortcut ingredient is key for a luxuriously creamy sauce that brings everything together.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Sour cream lends tanginess and an extra velvety finish.
- 1/2 cup milk: Thins the sauce just enough so every bite is perfectly creamy but never dry.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and a balancing earthiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Paprika offers subtle smokiness and an appetizing hint of color.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme’s herbal notes add complexity without overpowering the other flavors.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The cheddar provides bold flavor and lots of creamy meltiness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella blends in gooey, stretchy happiness (and beautiful cheese pulls!).
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan forms that golden, savory crust everyone loves on a pasta bake.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional): Sprinkle parsley for a pop of color and fresh, vibrant flavor before serving.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick coat of nonstick spray or a dab of butter. This simple step ensures every cheesy scoop of the Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake lifts out cleanly and beautifully.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then add your chosen pasta. Cook according to package directions until just al dente—the pasta will soak up more flavor as it bakes, so don’t overcook it here! Drain and set the pasta aside while you work on the rest.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add the diced onion and sauté until it’s softened and slightly golden, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute—this short sizzle is all it takes to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aroma.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Smoked Turkey
Toss in the cooked chicken and chopped smoked turkey. Let them mingle and heat through for about 2–3 minutes, soaking up all the flavors left in the pan. This step sets the stage for irresistibly savory bites in every forkful of Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
Grab a big mixing bowl! Combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and silky—this creamy sauce is at the heart of what makes this pasta bake comfort food perfection.
Step 6: Mix Everything Together
Fold the cooked pasta and the meat mixture into the sauce, then add both the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir gently but thoroughly—make sure every piece of pasta and every bite of chicken and turkey is coated in that luscious, cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Spread the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese all over the top for that perfect golden-baked finish. Pop the dish in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbling and gorgeously golden on top.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Once the Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake is out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes to set up—this helps with perfect, cheesy slices. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like a fresh, vibrant touch!
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake
Garnishes
Just before serving, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of green and liveliness to the Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake. If you’re feeling fancy, try a dusting of extra Parmesan or some cracked black pepper for extra flair.
Side Dishes
This rich casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or simple steamed broccoli to balance the creaminess. Fresh bread or garlic knots are always welcome for scooping up every delicious bit of cheese and sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake in individual ramekins for a personalized twist. For potlucks, pre-portion it into squares and arrange on a big platter, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges for a festive look. Or, try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes at the table if your guests love a little kick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftovers tightly with foil or transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy within 3–4 days—reheating brings the flavors right back to life for effortless next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
To freeze your Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake, let it cool completely, then wrap the baking dish well or portion it into airtight containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 20 minutes for a whole casserole). Single servings can be microwaved in short bursts, but add a spoonful of milk or broth to keep the pasta moist and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use all chicken or all turkey if I don’t have both?
Absolutely! You can make this pasta bake with just cooked chicken or just smoked turkey depending on what you have on hand. Swapping in rotisserie chicken or leftover holiday turkey works just as well, so feel free to adjust the mix to suit what’s available.
What are some veggies I can add to the Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake?
Sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, or tender peas are fantastic additions. Just toss them in when mixing the pasta with the sauce, and they’ll cook through as the bake bubbles in the oven.
Can I assemble this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the whole Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake ahead and refrigerated it, unbaked, covered for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time straight from the fridge.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and be sure to choose a gluten-free cream of chicken soup. The rest of the recipe can stay the same—enjoy all the comforting goodness without any gluten.
Can I make a smaller batch?
Definitely. Halve the ingredients and use an 8×8-inch dish for a cozier version, ideal for couples or small families. Baking time may be a little shorter, so keep an eye out for that bubbling, golden top.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a bubbling Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake coming out of the oven with its golden crust and irresistible aroma. If you’re in the mood for a true comfort classic that’s easy, hearty, and always a crowd-pleaser, it doesn’t get better than this. Give it a try, share it with those you love, and savor the irresistible flavors of this all-star casserole!
Print
Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this comforting Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake, a creamy and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for using up leftover poultry. With layers of tender pasta, savory meats, and a rich cheese blend, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
Meat Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 1/2 cups smoked turkey, chopped
Sauce:
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet, sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook briefly.
- Combine: Mix chicken, turkey, and sautéed ingredients with the sauce in a bowl.
- Assemble: Combine pasta, meat mixture, and cheeses, then pour into the baking dish.
- Bake: Top with Parmesan and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- This recipe is great for using up leftover chicken or turkey.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas for a veggie boost.
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