This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a warm hug in a dish! It’s filled with tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and pasta, all topped with gooey cheese that melts in your mouth.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and let it become bubbly and golden. Perfect for a cozy night in or when friends come over! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This shape holds the sauce well, but any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells will work. Gluten-free pasta is also a great option if you’re avoiding gluten.
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is handy for this recipe. If you don’t have chicken, cooked turkey or even veggies can substitute for a vegetarian version.
Alfredo Sauce: Store-bought sauce is convenient, but homemade is simple too! If you’re short on time, consider cream cheese mixed with milk as a quick alternative for a creamy texture.
Cheese: Mozzarella adds gooeyness, but you can mix other cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Just adjust to your taste!
Breadcrumbs: For a crunchy topping, use panko for extra crispness. You can also skip this or sprinkle crushed crackers if you’re out of breadcrumbs.
How Do You Make the Perfect Alfredo Sauce?
Making rich, creamy Alfredo sauce at home is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps:
- Start by melting butter or oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for just a minute to release the flavor.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently. Don’t rush this part! It should be just hot enough to warm the cream without boiling.
- Gently whisk in grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
This homemade sauce brings the dish together beautifully. Personal tip: always keep a little extra Parmesan on hand for a last-minute sprinkle!
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
If Making Homemade Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried herbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step makes sure your meal will come out easily!
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool for a moment.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce (if using homemade):
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the olive oil or butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to come to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, if you’d like.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
5. Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the pasta mixture to your greased baking dish. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese (if using), and finish it with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping!
6. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is super bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving. Dig in and enjoy your creamy, cheesy, delicious pasta bake!
This dish is perfect for family dinners, leftovers for lunch, or meal prep. It’s sure to become a favorite!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is a great choice for holding onto the sauce, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or even shells will work just fine. Just ensure you cook it until al dente for best results!
Can I Substitute the Chicken?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or even white beans for added protein. Cooked turkey or shredded ham are also great chicken substitutes!
How To Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Prepare the pasta mixture and assemble it in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming directly from the fridge!
