Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe

If ever there were a dish that captures all the cozy, comforting vibes of a Sunday family dinner, it’s Chicken Alfredo Casserole. This heartwarming classic takes everything you love about creamy Alfredo pasta and transforms it into a baked, bubbly casserole the whole table will devour. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a shower of golden, melty cheese create layers of rich flavor and texture in every forkful. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself to some serious comfort food, Chicken Alfredo Casserole never disappoints!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Chicken Alfredo Casserole comes down to using simple but essential ingredients. Each one builds richness, creaminess, or a pop of color—making every bite just the right blend of savory and satisfying flavor.

• Pasta: Penne or rotini hold all the creamy sauce and cheesy goodness in their nooks—go with what you have!
• Butter: Adds a subtle richness that forms the perfect base for your Alfredo sauce.
• Garlic: Three cloves add mild pungency and irresistible aroma—don’t skip it!
• Chicken: Pre-cooked, shredded chicken keeps things quick; rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut.
• Heavy Cream: The foundation of ultra-creamy Alfredo sauce—be generous for the silkiest texture.
• Whole Milk: Lightens the sauce just a touch without sacrificing that unmistakable lushness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Nutty, salty, and bold—grate your own for unbeatable flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: Brings herby balance and Italian flair; just a teaspoon does wonders.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for waking up all the other flavors; season to taste.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey, golden perfection on top—an absolute must!
• Parsley (optional): Chopped fresh parsley gives a fresh, colorful finish right before serving.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start things off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—even a quick swipe of butter or mist of cooking spray does the trick and makes clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s beautifully al dente. You want it to have a little bite since it’ll finish cooking in the oven. Drain well and set aside while you tackle the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and give it about a minute to turn fragrant—you’ll know it’s ready when the entire kitchen smells amazing. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, then stir in your Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer everything together for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the spoon.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken & Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and your shredded chicken right into the saucepan with the Alfredo sauce. Gently stir until every piece of pasta and chicken is thoroughly coated with that luscious creaminess—the goal is total, cheesy harmony in every bite.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

Pour the creamy mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese all over the top, creating a tempting layer that will melt into a golden, bubbly topping. Pop the whole thing in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until everything is hot and the cheese is melted and just starting to brown at the edges.

Step 6: Rest & Garnish

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking—this gives the sauce a chance to settle and makes for neater slices. Right before serving, a dusting of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a breath of freshness.

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley is a classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment—try a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, cracked black pepper, or even a dash of red chili flakes if you like a subtle kick. Lemon zest also works wonders for a touch of brightness.

Side Dishes

Chicken Alfredo Casserole pairs beautifully with simple vegetable sides like steamed broccoli, garlic green beans, or a big green salad. A few slices of warm, crusty bread are also perfect for scooping up all that dreamy sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins for a dinner-party feel. Or, serve alongside a medley of roasted vegetables on a platter for a family-style meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Alfredo Casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let the casserole cool to room temperature, cover tightly with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container, and refrigerate until you’re ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

This casserole is a freezer-friendly superstar! Assemble and bake as directed, allow to cool completely, then wrap well in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so the texture and sauce stay just right.

Reheating

For best results, reheat portions of Chicken Alfredo Casserole in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbling—this helps prevent the sauce from drying out. A splash of milk or cream stirred in before reheating will revive any lost creaminess.

FAQs

Can I add vegetables to my Chicken Alfredo Casserole?

Absolutely! Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, peas, or even sautéed mushrooms before baking to sneak in extra color, nutrients, and texture without losing any of the casserole’s signature creaminess.

What’s the best pasta for this casserole?

Penne and rotini are tried-and-true favorites because their shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully. But feel free to use ziti, fusilli, or any short pasta you have in the pantry—just stay away from long noodles for best results.

Can I make this casserole without heavy cream?

If you want to lighten things up, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk. The sauce won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be deliciously creamy.

How can I make Chicken Alfredo Casserole gluten-free?

Swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety and make sure any pre-cooked chicken and seasonings you use are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free!

Can I assemble Chicken Alfredo Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake as directed—just add an extra 5 to 10 minutes if it’s going straight from the fridge to the oven.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a go-to for family dinners, potlucks, and weeks when you just want something extra comforting. Give it a try, and you’ll discover why this creamy, cheesy, hearty bake earns rave reviews from everyone around the table!

Print