Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe

Some nights, the chaos of the day just seems to follow us right into the kitchen. Between soccer practice, homework help, and a mountain of laundry, getting a wholesome, delicious dinner on the table can feel like a monumental task. I remember one particularly hectic Tuesday when everyone was tired and cranky.

I needed a win. I needed comfort food. That’s when I turned to my trusty, family-favorite Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe.

The moment that bubbly, golden-brown casserole came out of the oven, the mood in the house shifted. The incredible aroma filled every room, and suddenly, everyone was gathered around the table, smiling. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a baking dish.

It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone together, turning a stressful weeknight into a cherished family memory. This baked chicken alfredo is pure magic, and I’m so excited to share how you can bring that same magic to your dinner table with this simple and delicious creamy chicken alfredo bake.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This recipe for creamy chicken alfredo pasta bake has become a staple in my home for so many wonderful reasons, and I know you’ll fall in love with it, too.

• Ultimate Comfort Food: First and foremost, the combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety homemade Alfredo sauce, all topped with melted, bubbly cheese, is the very definition of comfort. Each bite of this cheesy chicken alfredo pasta bake is incredibly satisfying.
• Family-Approved: It’s a universal truth that kids and adults alike adore a good pasta bake. This recipe is mild enough for picky eaters yet flavorful enough for discerning palates. It’s a guaranteed clean-plate-club winner.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: You can assemble this entire chicken alfredo pasta bake ahead of time. Simply put it together, cover it, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready for dinner, just bake it. This makes it a lifesaver for busy days or for when you have company coming over.
• Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy to create this masterpiece. The ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store, and you probably have most of them in your pantry and fridge right now to make this fantastic Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here is everything you need to gather to create the best Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe your family has ever tasted.

• Pasta: 16 oz penne pasta (or other short pasta like ziti or rigatoni)
• Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Seasoning: 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), unsalted
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
• All-Purpose Flour: 3 tablespoons
• Heavy Cream: 2 cups
• Milk: 1 cup (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
• Cream Cheese: 4 oz, softened and cubed
• Parmesan Cheese: 1.5 cups, freshly grated
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded, divided
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions & Variations

One of the best things about this baked chicken alfredo pasta is its versatility. You can easily tweak it to suit your family’s tastes or use what you have on hand.

• Shortcut Chicken: In a pinch for time? Use about 3-4 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. Simply skip the chicken-cooking step and stir the cooked chicken in with the pasta and sauce. This makes for an even easier chicken alfredo bake.
• Add Vegetables: This is a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients! Add 2 cups of steamed broccoli florets, a cup of frozen peas (thawed), or a few handfuls of fresh spinach (stir it into the sauce until wilted). A sun-dried tomato and spinach chicken alfredo bake is another fantastic variation.
• Change the Protein: Not in the mood for chicken? This recipe works wonderfully with cooked shrimp or sliced, cooked Italian turkey sausage.
• Different Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, feel free to experiment. A blend of Italian cheeses, a little provolone for a smoky flavor, or some Gruyère for nuttiness can elevate your cheesy chicken alfredo pasta bake.
• Spice It Up: If your family enjoys a little heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce when you sauté the garlic. This gives the creamy chicken alfredo bake a gentle warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe. I promise it’s easier than you think!

1. Prep Your Kitchen: First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside. This preparation is key for a successful creamy chicken alfredo pasta bake.
2. Cook the Pasta: Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions, but be sure to cook it for 1-2 minutes less than the recommended time, until it is al dente. The pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
3. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Finally, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. This step is crucial for a thick, creamy chicken alfredo sauce.
5. Build the Sauce: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, until it starts to thicken. Reduce the heat to low.
6. Add the Cheese: Now, stir in the cubed cream cheese until it has completely melted into the sauce. Then, gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese and 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and velvety. Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Combine and Assemble: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and stir everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in that glorious sauce. This is the heart of your creamy chicken alfredo pasta bake recipe.
8. Bake to Perfection: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. For an extra-crispy top, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch it closely!
9. Rest and Serve: Finally, remove the chicken alfredo pasta bake from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the sauce to set up a bit, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

To make sure your Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe turns out perfectly every single time, keep these simple tips in mind.

• Undercook Your Pasta: This is my most important tip! Always cook your pasta to a firm al dente. It will absorb some of the sauce and continue cooking in the oven. Overcooking it beforehand will result in a mushy baked chicken alfredo pasta.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: I know the pre-shredded bags are convenient, but they contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. For the smoothest, creamiest Alfredo sauce, always buy blocks of Parmesan and mozzarella and grate them yourself. It makes a huge difference in this creamy chicken alfredo bake.
• Use Room Temperature Dairy: Allowing your heavy cream, milk, and cream cheese to sit on the counter for about 20-30 minutes before making the sauce helps them incorporate more smoothly and reduces the chance of the sauce breaking.
• Don’t Scorch the Garlic: Burnt garlic can ruin the delicate flavor of your Alfredo sauce. Sauté it just until it’s fragrant—about 30 seconds is all it needs.
• Let It Rest: It’s tempting to dive right in, but letting the chicken alfredo pasta bake rest for at least 5 minutes after it comes out of the oven is essential. It helps the casserole set, so it holds its shape when you serve it.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This creamy chicken alfredo pasta bake recipe makes fantastic leftovers, if you have any! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often meld together and taste even better the next day!
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this casserole! For best results, assemble the entire dish in a freezer-safe baking dish but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can bake it directly from frozen at 375°F for about 50-60 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly. You can also freeze individual portions for quick and easy lunches.
• Reheating: The best way to reheat this chicken alfredo pasta bake is in the oven. Place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of milk or cream to keep it from drying out, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This creamy chicken alfredo pasta bake is a hearty, all-in-one meal, but a few simple side dishes can round it out perfectly.

• Garlic Bread: A must-have for soaking up every last bit of that delicious, creamy Alfredo sauce.
• A Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a fresh, acidic contrast that cuts through the richness of the pasta bake. A Caesar salad is also a classic pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are fantastic companions. Their earthy flavor complements the creamy sauce of this baked chicken alfredo pasta wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce for this recipe?

You certainly can if you’re short on time. A high-quality jarred sauce will work in a pinch for this chicken alfredo bake. However, the homemade sauce in this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe is truly what makes it special. It’s incredibly rich, flavorful, and free of preservatives, and it only takes a few extra minutes to make.

Why did my Alfredo sauce turn out grainy?

A grainy sauce is usually caused by one of two things: using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking starches, or overheating the sauce after the cheese has been added, which can cause it to separate. To avoid this, always grate your own cheese from a block and keep the heat on low once you start melting the cheeses into your sauce for a perfect creamy chicken alfredo bake.

Can I make this pasta bake gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version of this creamy chicken alfredo pasta bake recipe, simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to make the roux for the sauce.

Is this a good recipe for a potluck?

This chicken alfredo pasta bake is one of the best recipes for a potluck! It travels well, can be made ahead of time, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Just be sure to transport it in an insulated carrier to keep it warm. Everyone always asks for the recipe for this amazing creamy chicken alfredo pasta bake.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Please note that this is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used. This calculation is for one of eight servings of the Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	720 kcal
Protein	45 g
Fat	38 g
Carbohydrates	48 g
Sodium	950 mg

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