Introduction

Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent comfort food favorite. Tender pasta, juicy chicken, and rich Alfredo sauce are layered together, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan, and baked to golden perfection. This dish is the ultimate weeknight dinner or family meal, combining the creaminess of Alfredo pasta with the crispy, melty goodness of baked cheese.

It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that is both hearty and satisfying. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly baked pasta make it feel like a restaurant-quality dish made at home.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s rich, comforting, and easy to make in one dish. The creamy Alfredo sauce envelops the pasta and chicken perfectly, while the baked topping gives a wonderful golden, bubbly texture. It’s a dish that’s universally loved, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, and the leftovers taste just as amazing when reheated.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and indulgent.
• Easy One-Dish Meal: Combines protein, carbs, and creamy sauce in one pan.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add vegetables or swap chicken for shrimp.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Can be prepared ahead and baked when ready.

Recipe Info

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~550–600 per serving (approximate)
• Cuisine: Italian / American
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bake

• 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup broccoli florets or spinach (optional, for veggies)

For Homemade Alfredo Sauce (Optional)

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain.
3. Prepare Alfredo sauce if making homemade.
4. Mix cooked pasta, chicken, vegetables, and Alfredo sauce in a large bowl.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook Pasta
   • Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
   • Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Alfredo Sauce (if homemade)
   • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in flour to form a roux, cooking 1–2 minutes.
   • Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
   • Stir in Parmesan and garlic, season with salt and pepper, and cook until sauce thickens.
4. Combine Ingredients
   • In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced chicken, optional vegetables, and Alfredo sauce.
   • Mix until pasta is evenly coated.
5. Assemble Pasta Bake
   • Transfer pasta mixture to prepared baking dish.
   • Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
6. Bake
   • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
   • Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes for extra golden topping.
7. Serve
   • Let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.
• Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a glass of white wine.
• Great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
• For extra flavor, add cooked mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.
• Use whole-grain pasta for added fiber.
• Allow the pasta bake to rest for a few minutes before serving to help it set.

Variations

• Shrimp Alfredo Bake: Replace chicken with cooked shrimp.
• Vegetable Alfredo Bake: Add broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Spicy Alfredo: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in provolone or fontina with mozzarella for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for the sauce.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked pasta bake in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to baking time.
• Reheating: Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large pot for pasta
• Medium saucepan (for Alfredo sauce)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk and spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pasta bake and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q2: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, store-bought sauce works perfectly and saves time.

Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and flour for the sauce.

Q4: Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great additions.

Q5: Can I freeze after baking?
Yes, store cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven.

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The combination of tender pasta, succulent chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Easy to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser, this pasta bake is a must-try for anyone who loves classic Italian flavors in a hearty, home-cooked meal.