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Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

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A cozy, cheesy pasta bake featuring tender chicken and a rich, homemade Alfredo sauce topped with a golden, bubbly cheese crust. Perfect for family dinners and comforting weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta (or rigatoni for extra bite)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (part whole milk preferred)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cups whole milk (can swap for 2% or dairy-free milk like oat)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz penne pasta and cook for 9-11 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but not browned.
  3. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux, smooth and pasty.
  4. Slowly pour in 3 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream while whisking constantly. Cook until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Add 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and silky. Add more milk if sauce is too thick.
  6. Add cooked pasta and 2 cups cooked chicken breast to the Alfredo sauce. Stir gently to coat evenly.
  7. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour pasta mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish. Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
  8. Mix 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese with 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional) and sprinkle over mozzarella layer.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for last 2 minutes, watching closely.
  10. Let pasta bake rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; it will cook further in the oven. Whisk sauce constantly to avoid lumps. Add milk gradually if sauce thickens too much. Broil last 2 minutes for a crispy crust but watch carefully to prevent burning. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives. Variations include vegetarian, low-carb, dairy-free, and spicy versions.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken Alfredo, pasta bake, creamy pasta, comfort food, cheesy pasta bake, easy dinner, family meal

Find it online: https://blipflavor.com/creamy-chicken-alfredo-pasta-bake-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/