Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake

Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake

Are you ready for a deliciously cheesy dish that will have your family clamoring for seconds? Introducing the Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake! This comforting recipe blends tender chicken and al dente pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, making it the ultimate treat for cheese lovers. What’s not to love? It’s easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners, and sure to become a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!

Did you know that pasta bakes have origins that date back centuries? It’s true! This dish takes seamless comfort food to a whole new level. Unlike others, this one combines the juiciness of chicken and mouthwatering cheesy goodness into every bite, making those busy weeknight meals feel a little more special. If you enjoy this recipe, you might also want to check out our creamy fettuccine Alfredo, which is another flavorful favorite! Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for trying this dish. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into crafting this cheesy delight!

What is Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake?

So, what’s in a name like Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake? Well, everything! The title alone gives me the giggles, thinking about how many delicious ingredients are crammed into one dish. It’s almost as if every food critic in town sat around asking, “What does everyone want for dinner?” and the answer was this glorious creation! There’s something about a name that promises cheesy goodness and savory satisfaction that sparks joy in our hearts, right? As they say, "the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach," and trust me, this dish will seal the deal! So, why not give it a whirl and show your family how much you care by putting this on the dinner table tonight?

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake

Here are a few reasons you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe. First, the star of the show is undoubtedly the mouthwatering cheesy sauce that blankets the pasta, chicken, and delectable toppings. Imagine a creamy blend of cheeses melting seamlessly to create the ultimate comfort experience! Second, there’s a significant cost-saving benefit by making this at home rather than grabbing take-out or at a restaurant. You’ll save money and have full control over the ingredients!

Finally, the potential for customizing this dish is endless! You can mix in any of your favorite toppings or spices to elevate the flavors. Whether you prefer it classic or a little adventurous, this pasta bake is a delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. If you love cheesy baked dishes, you might also like our cheesy broccoli casserole! So, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake

Quick Overview

Ready to whip up a cheesy, satisfying dinner? This Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake is a breeze thanks to its straightforward preparation process. In just about 30 minutes of prep time and minimal cooking effort, you’ll have a baked dish that’s bursting with flavor! Let’s get into the heart of this delish recipe!

Key Ingredients for Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake:

• 8 ounces of pasta (your choice, such as rotini or penne)
• 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups of shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella works best)
• 1 cup of cream cheese
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon of paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, cream cheese, and milk. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
4. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor.
5. Fold in the cooked pasta gently until the pasta is coated in the cheese mixture.
6. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a delightful crunch.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

What to Serve Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake With

This cheesy delight pairs excellently with various sides. Consider adding a fresh garden salad with your favorite dressing to balance the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread is always a hit, soaking up the cheesy sauce. For a delightful drink, serve a light white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complement the flavor profiles perfectly!

Top Tips for Perfecting Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake

1. For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to add more than one type of cheese, such as gouda or Parmesan.
2. If you want to boost nutrition, add veggies like spinach or broccoli directly into the pasta.
3. Substitute leftover rotisserie chicken to save time without compromising on flavor.
4. Keep an eye on the bake time; every oven varies, so check for the perfect bubbling golden crust!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Any leftovers from this delicious dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a few minutes or cover it in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well; simply wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to defrost before reheating!

Now that you’ve got all the backup you need for this amazing Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake, it’s time to get cooking and make some delicious memories in the kitchen!

Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta Bake

A comforting dish combining tender chicken and al dente pasta in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (your choice, such as rotini or penne)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• 2 cups shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella) Feel free to add other types of cheese for more flavor.
• 1 cup cream cheese Ensure it is softened for easy mixing.
• 1 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for topping) For added texture.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheese, cream cheese, and milk. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
4. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor.
5. Fold in the cooked pasta gently until the pasta is coated in the cheese mixture.

Baking

1. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, and spread evenly.
2. Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a delightful crunch.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
4. Remove from the oven and let it cool a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

For an extra cheesy experience, add more than one type of cheese like gouda or Parmesan. To boost nutrition, add veggies like spinach or broccoli. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat in the microwave or oven.