Description

This creamy chicken and bacon pasta casserole is the perfect comfort food. Loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s an easy and satisfying dinner the whole family will love. Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd!

Ingredients

12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini works well)
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble. Set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Cook for 1 minute.
Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix in sour cream.
Add cheddar cheese and mozzarella, stirring until melted and creamy.
Stir in cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and half the crumbled bacon. Mix well.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining bacon and Parmesan cheese.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Add steamed broccoli or peas for extra veggies.

This dish freezes well. Just wrap tightly and freeze before baking.