If you are craving a dish that combines comforting textures with rich, luscious flavors, this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with cheesy goodness, tender shredded chicken, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all enveloped in a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce, this bake is a wonderful crowd-pleaser. It’s the ideal dish to bring family and friends together around the dinner table, delivering that irresistible warmth and satisfaction that only a creamy casserole can provide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a baking dish with two main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of yellow cooked penne pasta and small chunks of grilled white meat pieces, scattered evenly. The second layer is creamy white sauce being poured over the pasta and meat, creating a smooth, thick texture that begins to cover the pasta. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, with part of a hand holding the bowl of sauce visible on the right side, adding a dynamic feel to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe showcases simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each addition plays a key role, from the buttery richness of the sauce to the tender pasta and flavorful chicken that make every bite a delight.

1/2 cup unsalted butter: Provides the perfect base for creating a smooth, rich sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to that creamy consistency we all love.
1 tablespoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering the dish.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Lends a gentle kick that brightens the creamy sauce.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, keeping everything perfectly balanced.
1 1/2 cups whole milk: Brings creaminess and richness without heaviness.
1/2 cup unsalted chicken stock: Adds an extra layer of savory flavor to the sauce.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Essential for that luscious, silky texture in every spoonful.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened and diced: Creates a velvety smooth sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta and chicken.
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty edge that ties the sauce components together.
16 ounces penne pasta, cooked and well drained: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the sauce and cheese throughout the bake.
3 cups cooked shredded chicken: Tender protein that adds heartiness and complements the creamy sauce flawlessly.
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts wonderfully and creates that gorgeous golden-brown crust on top.
Fresh chopped parsley (optional): Adds a pop of fresh green color and a hint of brightness as a finishing touch.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. This step is crucial to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick and bakes evenly, setting the stage for a perfect creamy chicken Alfredo bake casserole recipe.

Step 2: Create the Alfredo Sauce

In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, garlic powder, black pepper, and kosher salt. This mixture cooks for about a minute, which forms a roux that will thicken your sauce beautifully without lumps.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Gradually whisk in the whole milk, followed by the chicken stock and heavy cream. Stir patiently to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. The combination of dairy and stock makes this sauce rich but perfectly balanced, elevating the entire casserole’s taste.

Step 4: Incorporate the Cream Cheese and Parmesan

Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated, which transforms the sauce into an ultra-silky, luscious base. Finish by adding the grated parmesan cheese and mix until it’s well blended. At this point, you’ve crafted a seriously decadent Alfredo sauce that’s the heart and soul of this bake.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta and shredded chicken directly into the pot, tossing everything together so every piece is lavishly coated in that rich Alfredo goodness. This step ensures the flavors marry perfectly before going into the oven.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Pour half of the pasta-chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Layer the remaining pasta mixture and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese. This layering technique guarantees a cheesy, bubbling top nestled atop that creamy interior.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and heated through. Then, switch the oven to broil and watch closely as the mozzarella turns a gorgeous golden brown, forming that irresistible crust we all adore. Remove when perfectly browned and let it rest slightly before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake Casserole Recipe

A white plate holds a serving of baked penne pasta in three layers: the bottom layer is creamy white sauce with chunks of light beige chicken pieces mixed with penne pasta, the middle layer shows golden-brown melted cheese with slightly crispy edges, and the top layer is sprinkled with chopped green herbs. A gold fork rests on the left side of the plate. The plate sits on a white marbled surface next to a small white bowl filled with fresh chopped green herbs and a white dish of baked pasta visible on the left edge. A textured beige cloth with blue stripes is placed on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top adds a lovely burst of color and a subtle herbal note that cuts through the richness. It’s a small touch that makes the dish even more inviting and visually appealing.

Side Dishes

This casserole is quite hearty on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Something light and fresh balances the creamy thickness and keeps the meal feeling well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions, making your Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake Casserole Recipe feel extra special. You can also sprinkle some extra parmesan or a touch of crushed red pepper flakes on each serving for an added flavor kick and decorative flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for enjoying quick lunches or dinners throughout the week without losing any of its indulgent charm.

Freezing

You can freeze the fully assembled but unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Be sure to cover it tightly with foil or a freezer-safe lid. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual, adding a little extra time if necessary until warmed through and bubbly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker option, individual servings can be reheated in the microwave, though the oven method helps maintain the casserole’s creamy texture and cheesy top.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful choice that works perfectly in this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake Casserole Recipe, saving prep time without sacrificing taste.

What pasta works best for this casserole?

Penne pasta is ideal because its tube shape holds onto the Alfredo sauce well, but other sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni, ziti, or shells would work wonderful too.

Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheeses. Keep in mind the casserole won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be deliciously creamy.

Can I prepare the casserole vegan or dairy-free?

While this recipe is naturally rich and cheesy, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheeses, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese alternatives, but results may vary from the classic creamy texture and flavor.

How long does it take to bake this cheesecake?

The casserole should bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly, and then a few minutes longer under the broiler to achieve that golden brown crust. Keep an eye on it during broiling to prevent burning.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake Casserole Recipe is a total winner when you want a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and utterly comforting without a complicated process. Whether for a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night at home, it promises to become a beloved favorite. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t regret filling your kitchen with the aroma of homemade Alfredo goodness!