Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of our Mushroom Chicken Alfredo Casserole, a dish that promises to elevate your weeknight dinners to a whole new level! Picture tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and savory mushrooms enveloped in a rich Alfredo sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This comforting casserole is not just a meal; it's a culinary hug that serves up to 8, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Ready to impress your taste buds and your loved ones? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that is sure to become a household favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and have released their moisture. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cooked pasta, sautéed mushrooms, 2 cups of Alfredo sauce, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pour the chicken and pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set up a bit.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Mushroom Chicken Alfredo Casserole!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on busy nights, consider prepping the ingredients in advance. Cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time, and store them in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the casserole.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli to the mix for added nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the mushrooms!
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist. Try adding cheddar for a sharper flavor or even a sprinkle of feta for a Mediterranean touch.
- Add Crunch: For an added texture, top your casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil before baking. This will give it a delightful crispy topping.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier, ensuring you get those perfect slices.
- Make it Your Own: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, while fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten up the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 540kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 37g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 80mg
