If there’s one dish that feels like a warm hug on a busy night, it’s Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to bring everyone to the table. The creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly baked pasta come together in a way that’s both comforting and satisfying. But what really takes it to the next level? You’ll have to find out.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Rich and Creamy Alfredo Sauce – The homemade sauce is velvety and full of flavor.
Juicy Chicken – Tender pieces of chicken add protein and heartiness.
Golden Crust – A cheesy topping that bakes to perfection for added texture.
Recipe
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden perfection. This crowd-pleasing recipe is ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, heavy cream, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the cooked pasta to the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes: For a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Customize by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
Time: Prep: 15 minutes | Cooking: 25 minutes | Total: 40 minutes
Serving: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
Cuisine: Italian-American
Equipment
To prepare this Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Gathering the right equipment guarantees a smooth cooking process and delicious results.
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
- Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Whisk for preparing the sauce
- Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping chicken
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
Nutrition
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. This dish is rich in calories and fats, making it a indulgent choice.
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g
What to Serve With This Recipe
I love pairing my chicken alfredo pasta bake with warm garlic bread or a light side salad to balance the richness. Steamed vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, also add a fresh, healthy touch to the meal. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll pour a glass of wine or bake some cheesy breadsticks for extra comfort.
Garlic Bread
If you’re whipping up a Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, you can’t go wrong pairing it with garlic bread—it’s the ultimate sidekick. I love slathering warm, crusty bread with rich garlic butter, then sprinkling it with a pinch of garlic seasoning before toasting it to golden perfection. The savory, buttery flavor complements the creamy pasta beautifully, making every bite feel like a cozy, comforting hug. It’s a match made in heaven.
Side Salad
When you’re serving up something as rich and creamy as Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, a fresh side salad can be just the thing to balance it out. I love experimenting with fresh salad variations, like mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or even a tangy coleslaw. For dressing options, I’ll go light with a lemon vinaigrette or balsamic—it cuts through the richness perfectly.
Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables make a bright, healthy companion to the rich flavors of Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake. I love experimenting with steamed vegetable variations like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini—they add color and crunch to the meal. Plus, their health benefits, like vitamins and fiber, balance the creamy pasta perfectly. Steaming keeps them tender yet firm, and a sprinkle of lemon or herbs elevates their natural taste effortlessly.
Wine Pairing
While steamed vegetables bring a fresh, healthy touch to Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, I’ve found that the right wine can take the meal to a whole new level. For me, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce perfectly. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir works well without overpowering the dish. Experiment to find your favorite pairing—it’s worth the effort!
Cheesy Breadsticks
If there’s one thing I love to serve with my Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, it’s cheesy breadsticks. Their gooey, stretchy cheese pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta, making them a match made in comfort food heaven. I always whip up a couple of dipping sauces, like marinara or garlic butter, to add extra flavor. These cheesy pairings turn a simple meal into something truly special, and my family can’t get enough!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Sometimes, breaking the mold feels like setting the stage for something extraordinary. Using pasta alternatives can be a delightful twist, but remember their cooking time might vary. I’d suggest choosing one that’s hearty enough to hold up.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
I’m wondering if it’s possible to make this gluten-free. I’d swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta, which works just as well. I’d also check other ingredients for gluten-free alternatives to guarantee the whole dish fits my dietary needs.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers in the Fridge?
Did you know 40% of food waste happens at home? For leftover storage, I keep my fridge at 40°F or below for safety. I refrigerate leftovers within two hours and eat them within three to four days.
Can I Freeze the Pasta Bake for Later?
I can freeze it for later, but I’ll follow freezing tips like using airtight containers to prevent freezer burn. When I’m ready to eat, I’ll use thawing methods like overnight refrigeration or reheating it directly from frozen.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
Did you know 68% of Americans look for healthier alternatives in recipes? I often swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt for protein or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Silken tofu, almond milk, cashew cream, or a broth mixture also work great.
