Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer gently for 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Seasonings: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional nutmeg until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, diced cooked chicken, and Alfredo sauce until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble Bake: Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Boost nutrition by including vegetables like broccoli or spinach in the bake.
- For a crispier cheese topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for easy reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: High-Protein