Hello, food lovers! Are you in the mood for a dish that’s both creamy and loaded with cheesy goodness? If you’re a fan of comfort food, then this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake will become your next favorite recipe. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just looking for something special to treat yourself, this meal ticks all the boxes with its golden, bubbly, and deliciously cheesy top layer. Plus, it’s perfect for those who love rich and creamy pasta dishes.
Introduction
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is an Italian-American-inspired recipe that brings together the comfort of baked pasta with the luxurious texture of Alfredo sauce. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and tender chicken in this dish creates a flavor-packed meal that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners. You’ll love how the sauce binds with the pasta to create a creamy, rich texture, while the mozzarella and Parmesan on top add a delightful crispy finish. It’s a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike and is perfect for anyone who enjoys cheesesteaks and hearty, home-cooked meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained (reserve 1 cup of pasta water)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 2 jars (15 oz each) Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup garlic Parmesan sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
For substitutions:
- To make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Dairy-free option: Replace Alfredo sauce with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan cheese.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake – Step by Step
Step1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to avoid sticking.
Step2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. If the mixture feels too thick, add about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to reach a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step3: Assemble the Dish
Transfer the creamy mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. This will give your bake that irresistible cheesy, golden top once it’s baked.
Step4: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until everything is hot, bubbly, and aromatic.
Step5: Broil for Perfection
For a crispy, golden cheese top, remove the foil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
Step6: Garnish and Serve
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and a burst of freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- If you want extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the Alfredo sauce before mixing it with the pasta.
- For a slightly spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated can significantly enhance the flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic in your Parmesan sauce for a more robust flavor.
- Al Dente Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta just shy of al dente to avoid it becoming mushy after baking. It will absorb the sauces while cooking in the oven.
- Cheese Quality: For the best results, shred your own mozzarella from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese. It melts better and creates a gooey cheese pull effect.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing side dish. Here are some ideas:
- Fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the bake.
- Garlic bread for soaking up any extra sauce.
- A chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness of the cheese sauce.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Info for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake (per serving):
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Calcium: 300mg
Storage and Leftovers
Got leftovers? No worries! Here’s how to keep them fresh and delicious:
- To store: Place the leftover pasta bake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze: Wrap the bake tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- To reheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and warm the bake for 15-20 minutes, covered, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when ready.
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or farfalle all work well with this recipe.
- Can I make this dish healthier? You can lighten the dish by using whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and a reduced-calorie Alfredo sauce.
- What can I do with leftover pasta bake? Leftovers make a great lunch for the next day. Just reheat and enjoy!
Related Recipes
Looking for more delicious meals like this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake? Check out these related recipes on OptimalRecipes.com:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread: A Hearty Meal
– This casserole dish is another great comfort food option!
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix
– Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Conclusion
There you have it! A rich and comforting Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a weeknight meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations in the comments – I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!
Print
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake – Easy Recipe
Description
Hello, food lovers! Are you in the mood for a dish that’s both creamy and loaded with cheesy goodness? If you’re a fan of comfort food, then this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake will become your next favorite recipe. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just looking for something special to treat yourself, this meal ticks all the boxes with its golden, bubbly, and deliciously cheesy top layer. Plus, it’s perfect for those who love rich and creamy pasta dishes.
Ingredients
- 1 pound rotini pasta, cooked and drained (reserve 1 cup of pasta water)
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 2 jars (15 oz each) Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup garlic Parmesan sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
For substitutions:
- To make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Dairy-free option: Replace Alfredo sauce with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan cheese.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to avoid sticking.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic Parmesan sauce, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. If the mixture feels too thick, add about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to reach a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Transfer the creamy mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top. This will give your bake that irresistible cheesy, golden top once it’s baked.
Step 4: Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until everything is hot, bubbly, and aromatic.
Step 5: Broil for Perfection
For a crispy, golden cheese top, remove the foil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and a burst of freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- If you want extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the Alfredo sauce before mixing it with the pasta.
- For a slightly spicy kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated can significantly enhance the flavor.
