Chicken Alfredo Bake

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
3. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
4. Add the flour to form a roux and cook for 1 minute.
5. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
6. Stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until creamy.
7. Toss the pasta and chicken with the Alfredo sauce until thoroughly coated.
8. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with extra mozzarella if desired.
9. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Finish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Variations

• Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas before baking.
• Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or rotisserie chicken.
• Use different cheeses such as Gruyère or white cheddar for a deeper flavor.
• Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat.

Tips

• Cook pasta just to al dente so it holds up during baking.
• Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.
• Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to settle into the pasta.