Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake. Combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and hearty pasta, all smothered in a rich, homemade Alfredo sauce, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe brings warmth and joy to any table.
Ingredients:
- For the Bake:
- 3 cups cooked rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 3 rashers of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 100 grams brown mushrooms, chopped
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Olive oil
- For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 125 grams butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 200 ml cream
- 200 ml milk
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the rotini pasta by boiling it as per the directions on the package until it reaches a firm, yet tender texture.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken and Bacon:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the grated garlic and chopped mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and the mixture is fragrant.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- Heat the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until fully melted.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a roux.
- Gradually add the cream and milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in the shredded Parmesan and cheddar cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, sautéed vegetables, and Alfredo sauce. Combine thoroughly to make sure all ingredients are evenly covered.
- Bake the Dish:
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Bake is a hearty and satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. The creamy Alfredo sauce, combined with the savory chicken and crispy bacon, creates a delectable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete and comforting dinner experience. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of this delightful bake!