Pin A creamy, comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, fettuccine pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce, baked to golden perfection with a cheesy topping.
I tried this chicken fettuccine Alfredo bake on a busy weeknight, and it instantly became a family favorite. The rich, cheesy sauce paired with golden baked pasta always gets rave reviews at dinner.
Ingredients
- Fettuccine pasta: 12 oz (340 g)
- Cooked chicken breast: 2 cups (about 300 g), diced or shredded
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp (60 g)
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup (30 g)
- Whole milk: 3 cups (720 ml)
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 1 1/2 cups (150 g), freshly grated (for sauce)
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Nutmeg (optional): 1/4 tsp, ground
- Mozzarella cheese: 1 cup (115 g), shredded (for topping)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g), freshly grated (for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional): 2 tbsp, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep Baking Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Roux:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to form a roux.
- Add Dairy:
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Season:
- Stir in the Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden. If desired, broil for 2 to 3 minutes for a crisper top.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let stand for 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.
Pin My kids love helping sprinkle the cheese on top just before baking, making this a favorite family cooking moment. We always look forward to those gooey, melty servings right out of the oven together.
Serving Ideas
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Roasted vegetables on the side add color and nutrition.
Variations
Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the pasta mixture for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. You can substitute rotisserie chicken if you're short on time.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover and warm in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through.
Pin This creamy chicken Alfredo bake delivers pure comfort with every forkful. Enjoy for dinner tonight or meal prep for satisfying leftovers!
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different pasta instead of fettuccine?
Yes, you can substitute other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for similar texture and saucy coverage.
- → How can I make the sauce thicker?
Cook the roux with flour and butter a little longer before adding milk and cream to develop a thicker base.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking; allow extra baking time if cold.
- → What adds richness to the Alfredo sauce?
Butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan create a velvety, rich texture and flavor.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peas can be stirred in for added flavor and nutrition.