Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like a creamy, cheesy pasta bake. Our Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake takes the classic flavors of Alfredo sauce and transforms them into a hearty, oven-baked masterpiece that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make, bringing restaurant-quality taste straight to your table.

First, let’s talk about what makes this dish so irresistible. The creamy Alfredo sauce, made from scratch, coats every piece of tender penne pasta and juicy chicken. As it bakes in the oven, the dish develops a golden, bubbly top layer of melted mozzarella, making it impossible to resist. What’s more, the subtle hint of garlic and Italian seasoning elevates the flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with richness and warmth.

But the best part? This recipe is endlessly versatile. For example, you can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor. Or, if you’re looking to spice things up, a dash of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply meal-prepping for the week, this dish is as practical as it is delicious.

Additionally, the Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is designed to suit both novice and experienced cooks. With simple, straightforward steps, you’ll find it easy to create a dish that looks and tastes impressive. Plus, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love—from picky eaters to sophisticated palates.

So, why not treat yourself to the creamy, cheesy goodness of this pasta bake? Not only will it satisfy your cravings, but it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try tonight—you won’t regret it!

INGREDIENTS
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
3 tbsp cream cheese (optional, for added creaminess)
1 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
5 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, for topping)
½ cup chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven: First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is preheating, lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the pasta: Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is ready, cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Alfredo sauce: Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Afterward, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 min until fragrant.
4. Add the liquids: Gradually sprinkle in the flour while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking as you go. Allow the mixture to cook for 3–4 min, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in cheese and seasonings: Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Then, add the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and cream cheese (if using). Stir until everything is fully combined and smooth.
6. Combine chicken and pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and drained pasta. Carefully pour the Alfredo sauce over the mixture, ensuring all the pasta is evenly coated.
7. Assemble the bake: After combining the ingredients, transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly, and then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and optional grated Parmesan over the top.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 min, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges. For an extra touch, you can broil the top for 1–2 min at the end.
9. Garnish and serve: Finally, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 min. Before serving, sprinkle the top with chopped chives for a fresh, vibrant garnish. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For the best flavor and creaminess, always grate Parmesan cheese fresh rather than using pre-shredded varieties. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent it from melting smoothly into the Alfredo sauce.
• Cook pasta until al dente: Be sure to cook your penne until it is just al dente, as it will continue cooking while baking. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming too soft and ensures the dish retains the perfect texture.
• Customize with add-ins: While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily enhance it by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach, which pair well with the Alfredo sauce. Additionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give the dish a subtle heat, balancing its creamy richness.