Looking for a hassle free dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole is here to save the day! With minimal prep and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re just not in the mood for complicated cooking.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. There’s no need to boil pasta or pre cook chicken just mix, bake, and enjoy! It’s a dish that brings comfort and convenience together, making it a family favorite in no time.
Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding a hungry family, this casserole is sure to impress. Plus, with only a handful of pantry staples, you can whip it up on a whim without needing a long grocery list.
Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese to be divided
- One 8-ounce package of penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon of onion powder
- 8 ounces of Alfredo sauce
- 1/4 cup of milk
- 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese
- Three halves of skinless boneless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
Instructions
1Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking the casserole.
2Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Allow the chicken to cook until it is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear, which should take approximately 15 minutes.
3Cook the Pasta: Simultaneously, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it is tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta.
4Prepare Chicken for Casserole: After cooking, drain the chicken and cut it into bite-sized pieces suitable for the casserole.
5Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked penne pasta, Alfredo sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, milk, onion powder, and garlic powder. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
6Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixed ingredients into a 1.5-quart casserole dish. Evenly distribute the mixture and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and all of the Cheddar cheese over the mixture to create a cheese topping.
7Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is bubbly.
There you have it a dish that’s as effortless as it is delicious! This Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole is proof that you don’t need hours in the kitchen to create a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s creamy, flavorful, and sure to become a go-to recipe for busy days or when you’re craving something comforting.
Don’t forget to make it your own by adding your favorite vegetables or toppings. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying a quiet family dinner, this casserole is bound to earn a permanent spot on your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and let the magic of “dump and bake” simplify your life!