Savory Chicken Bacon Alfredo Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, all baked to perfection with pasta. This recipe is not only comforting but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option that your family will love. With its cheesy goodness and savory elements, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create this delicious meal!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini works well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the pasta mixture.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Penne or rotini pasta is recommended due to their shape, which holds the sauce well, but you can use any pasta you prefer.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and ensure that your Alfredo sauce is also gluten-free.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.