Save A creamy, comforting casserole featuring tender chicken, fettuccine pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce, baked to golden perfection with a cheesy topping.
I first made this bake for a family night, and it instantly became everyone's favorite comfort food. The irresistible golden cheesy crust and creamy filling always take us straight to cozy vibes.
Ingredients
- Fettuccine pasta: 12 oz (340 g), cooked al dente
- Chicken breast: 2 cups (about 300 g), cooked, 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
- Ground nutmeg (optional): 1/4 tsp
- 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
- Prepare Oven and Baking Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Form Roux:
- Whisk in flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
- Add Milk and Cream:
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring until thickened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning:
- Stir in Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken:
- Add cooked chicken and pasta to sauce. Toss until coated.
- Transfer to Dish:
- Spread mixture evenly in baking dish. Top with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crisper top if desired.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let stand for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Save My kids love helping sprinkle cheese on top before baking, making this dish extra special for family dinners on chilly nights.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad and some warm garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use gluten-free pasta and flour for a wheat-free version, and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing Leftovers
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven until warmed through for best results.
Save This bake brings warmth and comfort to every table. Enjoy every creamy bite with those you love!
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of chicken is best for this dish?
Cooked, diced or shredded chicken breast works well, and rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
- → Can I use a different pasta than fettuccine?
Yes, other pasta types like penne or rigatoni can be substituted if preferred.
- → How do I achieve a creamy sauce consistency?
Slowly whisking milk and cream into the roux and cooking until thickened ensures a smooth, creamy Alfredo sauce.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely, sautéed mushrooms or spinach make excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrients.
- → What is the best way to get a crispy topping?
Baking until bubbly and golden, then broiling for a few minutes creates a perfectly crisp cheese crust.