Happily Ever After Chicken Alfredo Bake

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
  5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  6. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Variations

  • Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.
  • Use grilled chicken for a smokier taste.
  • Substitute part of the Parmesan with Asiago for richer depth.
  • Mix in cooked broccoli or peas for a vegetable-forward version.

Tips

  • Cook pasta just to al dente so it doesn’t soften too much while baking.
  • If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
  • For a crispier top, broil the dish for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
  • This casserole reheats beautifully—perfect for next-day leftovers.