Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole, a hearty dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection with pasta. It’s an ideal meal for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The smoky bacon pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and rich cheese sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its hearty ingredients and comforting taste make it a hit among both adults and children.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or to adjust the level of creaminess and seasoning to your preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• Chicken breasts or thighs
• Bacon strips
• Garlic cloves
• Onion
• Fresh spinach leaves
• Cherry or grape tomatoes
• Cream cheese
• Sour cream or heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Red pepper flakes, fresh herbs for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside. Dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Chop the bacon into small pieces, mince the garlic, dice the onion, halve the tomatoes, and rinse the spinach leaves.
2. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon pieces until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: Add a bit of olive oil to the skillet if needed. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the halved tomatoes and cook until they soften. Finally, add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and add the cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and combined with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth and sour cream (or heavy cream), stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet, stirring to coat everything evenly with the sauce. If the skillet isn’t large enough, combine everything in a large mixing bowl.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the top.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown crust.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation Time: About 20 minutes.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including baking).

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy twist.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheeses like gouda, fontina, or parmesan for varying flavor profiles.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this casserole?

Answer: Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or rigatoni are ideal as they hold the sauce well and provide a satisfying texture.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Answer: Yes, using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can save time. Simply shred or chop the chicken and add it during the assembly step.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Answer: Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Answer: Yes, assemble the casserole without baking, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Answer: Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, opt for turkey bacon, and incorporate more vegetables to lighten the dish.

What can I serve alongside this casserole?

Answer: A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement the richness of the casserole well.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Answer: Certainly. Cooked turkey or ham can be used as substitutes for chicken.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Answer: Ensure the pasta is cooked just until al dente, and don’t overbake the casserole. Covering with foil during baking can also help retain moisture.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Answer: Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives, coconut cream or cashew cream in place of sour cream, and ensure all other ingredients are dairy-free.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch?

Answer: Absolutely. Sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the cheese layer before baking for a crispy topping.

Conclusion

This Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole is a delectable blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility allows for various adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy this comforting dish as a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare

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