Introduction
Hey there! Today, I want to share with you one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes: Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole. This dish is a delicious combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta, all smothered in a creamy sauce and baked to perfection. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser and never fails to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
I make this dish whenever I need a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love. The combination of chicken and bacon is always a winner, and the creamy sauce brings everything together in the most delicious way. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or bacon from previous meals.
My family goes crazy for this because it’s incredibly satisfying and comforting. The flavors are rich and indulgent, making it the perfect dish for a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 pound pasta, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences. For example, you can add some vegetables like peas or spinach for an extra burst of color and nutrients. If you’re not a fan of bacon, you can substitute it with cooked ham or even omit it altogether for a vegetarian version. Get creative and make it your own!
Directions
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and butter mixture, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook the sauce for about 5 minutes, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and cooked pasta. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and mix until everything is well coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro tip: This is where I usually sneak a taste to make sure the seasoning is just right. Don’t worry if it looks a bit weird at this stage – it always does!
Notes
Through trial and error, I’ve discovered a few tips and tricks that can elevate this Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole:
- If you want to add some extra flavor, try sprinkling some dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the creamy sauce.
- For a crispy topping, mix together some breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle it over the casserole before baking.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken from scratch.
Variations
I love experimenting with different variations of this recipe. Here are a few ideas:
- Instead of cheddar cheese, try using mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add some diced tomatoes and fresh basil for a refreshing twist.
- If you’re a fan of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce over the casserole before serving.
Remember, cooking is all about exploring and finding what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole your own!
Equipment
While you don’t need any fancy equipment to make this recipe, having the following tools on hand can make the process even easier:
- A large skillet
- A whisk
- A casserole dish
But hey, if you don’t have these specific tools, don’t worry! You can always use a regular pan instead of a skillet and a baking dish instead of a casserole dish. Cooking is all about improvising and making it work with what you have!
Storage Information
This Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Though honestly, in my house, it never lasts more than a day! It’s just that good!
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this casserole with a simple green salad on the side. The freshness of the salad pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy flavors of the dish. You can also serve it with some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce. Yum!
FAQ
Q: Can I freeze this Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking it. Just assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Of course! While I love using penne pasta for this casserole, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Rotini, fusilli, or even macaroni will work just fine. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions before adding it to the dish.
Alright, my friend, that’s all there is to it! I hope you enjoy making and devouring this Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole as much as I do. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that will never disappoint. Happy cooking!
Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole
A delicious and comforting casserole dish made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy sauce, baked to perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for cozy nights in.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 pound pasta, cooked
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
-
Sprinkle flour over the garlic and butter mixture, stirring constantly for 2 minutes.
-
Pour in the milk slowly while whisking continuously. Cook the sauce for about 5 minutes until thickened.
-
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, bacon, and cooked pasta. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and mix well.
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Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
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Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!