If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a busy day, this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe is an absolute must-try. It brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a luscious cheesy sauce, all crowned with a golden, buttery Ritz cracker topping that adds a delightful crunch. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck favorite, this casserole delivers familiar flavors with a homemade touch that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Seven bowls with different ingredients are placed on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top left, a small white bowl holds greenish herbs and spices with fine texture. Next to it is a white bowl filled with light yellow crushed crackers. To the right, there is a clear glass measuring cup with white half & half cream. Below that is a gray bowl filled with shredded light beige chicken. In the center is a white bowl containing smooth, creamy, pale yellow condensed soup. On the bottom left, a white bowl shows shredded bright orange cheese. Next to it, a gray bowl holds uncooked light brown spiral pasta. Finally, the last white bowl on the bottom right has a mix of diced orange carrots and green peas. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each bringing something special to the table, from creamy texture to bright pops of color and that all-important crispy finish.

12 ounces egg noodles: These hold sauce beautifully and provide that classic tender bite we all love in casseroles.
3 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup: The creamy base that ties everything together with rich flavor.
1.5 cups half and half: Adds smoothness and richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided: Sharp cheddar delivers tang and melty goodness, split for layering and topping.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that gives the casserole a warm, inviting aroma.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances depth and savory notes subtly but surely.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds sweetness and complexity without the texture of fresh onions.
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Tender, flavorful chicken is the star protein and what makes this dish so comforting.
12 ounces frozen peas and carrots: These veggies add that fresh splash of color and a gentle sweetness.
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers: The crowning glory—golden, buttery crunch that transforms this casserole from classic to crave-worthy.
Kosher salt: Balances all flavors perfectly when sprinkled thoughtfully.
Fresh cracked pepper: Adds just the right amount of bite and complexity.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the noodles

Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees to get it ready for baking. Then, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions but aim for just al dente so they hold texture after baking. Perfect noodles are the foundation for this dish’s satisfying mouthfeel.

Step 2: Mix the creamy sauce

In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, half and half, 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Stir well until this mixture is smooth and creamy, promising that comforting depth in every bite.

Step 3: Combine noodles, chicken, and veggies

Gently fold the cooked noodles into the creamy sauce until evenly coated. Then add the shredded rotisserie chicken and frozen peas and carrots. Mixing them all ensures every forkful bursts with a little of everything—cheesy goodness, juicy chicken, and tender veggies.

Step 4: Assemble and top your casserole

Spread the mixture evenly in a 9×13 baking dish to ensure consistent cooking. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the top for that irresistible melty layer. Finally, generously cover with the crushed Ritz crackers, which will crisp up and add the perfect buttery crunch.

Step 5: Bake to golden perfection

Bake the casserole for about 20 minutes until it’s heated through and bubbly. For the grand finish, broil for 1 to 2 minutes just until the Ritz cracker topping turns a beautiful dark golden brown, giving you that signature texture and flavor punch that makes this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe so memorable.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe

A white rectangular casserole dish filled with a creamy pasta mix made of three visible layers: the base layer is light yellow twisted noodles, the middle layer consists of chunks of white chicken and small green peas, and the top layer is a smooth, light beige sauce that coats the entire pasta mixture evenly. Small bits of orange carrots are scattered throughout, adding color contrast. The dish is set on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few torn basil leaves adds a vibrant green contrast and fresh note that brightens this creamy dish perfectly. If you like a little extra tang, a light drizzle of hot sauce on the side can add a welcome kick.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness wonderfully. Alternatively, simple roasted vegetables or steamed green beans round out the meal with a touch of freshness and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style presentation, serve the casserole straight from the baking dish with rustic wooden spoons to scoop generous portions. If you’re entertaining, consider plating individual mini casseroles in ramekins topped with a sprig of herbs for an elegant touch that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover tightly and refrigerate your casserole for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the next-day meal just as delightful as fresh.

Freezing

This casserole freezes wonderfully. Assemble but don’t bake, then cover tightly with foil and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed for a convenient, comforting dinner any day of the week.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in a 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring the cheesy sauce remains creamy and the Ritz topping regains its crunch. Microwaving works in a pinch, but baking keeps that fresh-from-the-oven magic alive.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Grilled or poached chicken breast shredded into bite-sized pieces works just as well. Just make sure it’s cooked fully before mixing it into the casserole.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

Crushed buttery breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers make excellent substitutes, giving you a similar crunch and buttery flavor to top your casserole.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free egg noodles and make sure to find gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free crackers for the topping. This way, those avoiding gluten can still enjoy this comforting dish.

Is it okay to add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli florets to increase the veggie content and nutritional value without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I prepare this casserole entirely ahead of time?

You can assemble it completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining with less last-minute stress.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something incredibly satisfying about this Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe that turns a simple meal into something special. From the hearty chicken and noodles to the luscious sauce and that unbeatable crunchy topping, it’s a dish that feels like a celebration of comfort food at its best. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved classic at your own dinner table!

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