Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole
The Ultimate Comfort Food with No Fuss, No Stress
If you're looking for a cozy, creamy, no-fuss dinner that practically makes itself, look no further than the Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole. As the name suggests, this dish is all about minimal effort and maximum flavor. No pre-cooking the pasta. No pre-cooking the chicken. No standing over the stove. You literally dump everything into a baking dish, stir it, cover it, and bake it.
It’s the ultimate in comfort food — rich Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey melted cheese all baked together into one irresistible casserole. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is a lifesaver.
🍗 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
✅ One-dish meal — minimal cleanup
-
✅ No boiling pasta ahead of time
-
✅ Great for make-ahead dinners
-
✅ Customizable with pantry ingredients
-
✅ Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly. Here's what you'll need for a classic version:
Main Ingredients:
-
2 cups uncooked penne or rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
-
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie or leftovers work well)
-
1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
-
1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
-
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
-
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
-
1 cup frozen peas or broccoli florets
-
1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
-
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
-
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
🍽 Equipment Needed
-
9x13-inch baking dish
-
Aluminum foil
-
Mixing spoon or spatula
-
Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want the oven hot and ready to bake once everything is mixed together.
Step 2: Dump the Ingredients
In your 9x13-inch casserole dish (no need to grease), dump the following:
-
2 cups uncooked pasta
-
2 cups cooked chicken (cubed or shredded)
-
1 jar Alfredo sauce
-
1½ cups chicken broth
-
1 cup cream or milk
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper
-
Optional: Add peas, broccoli, or other veggies here
Stir everything together right in the baking dish. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
Step 3: Cover and Bake
-
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
-
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
✅ Tip: Stir halfway through baking (after 20–25 minutes) if you can, for more even pasta cooking.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping
Once the pasta is cooked:
-
Remove the foil.
-
Sprinkle 1½ cups shredded mozzarella and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
-
Return to oven (uncovered) and bake for 10–15 minutes more, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
🔥 Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crispy cheesy topping.
Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and the pasta firm up. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
🧀 Serving Suggestions
While this dish is delicious on its own, here are a few sides that pair beautifully:
-
Garlic bread or breadsticks – perfect for dipping in the creamy sauce
-
Simple green salad – adds crunch and freshness
-
Roasted or steamed vegetables – broccoli, asparagus, or carrots work well
-
Sautéed spinach or kale – for extra nutrition
🔁 Variations & Customizations
The beauty of this casserole lies in how easy it is to customize. Here are some creative ideas:
1. Protein Options:
-
Shrimp Alfredo Bake – use peeled, cooked shrimp instead of chicken
-
Turkey Alfredo – perfect for using Thanksgiving leftovers
-
Bacon & Chicken – stir in ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon for smoky flavor
2. Vegetarian Version:
-
Skip the chicken and add:
-
Mushrooms
-
Zucchini
-
Spinach
-
Roasted red peppers
-
Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
3. Sauce Upgrades:
-
Use homemade Alfredo sauce for richer flavor (butter, cream, garlic, Parmesan)
-
Add a dollop of cream cheese for a thicker sauce
-
Mix in pesto for an herby twist
4. Pasta Substitutes:
-
Shells, elbows, bowties, or ziti work great
-
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (check cooking time adjustments)
5. Cheese Lovers’ Upgrade:
-
Add shredded provolone, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or fontina for added depth
-
Top with a mix of breadcrumbs and melted butter for crunch
❄️ Make Ahead & Storage Tips
To Make Ahead:
-
Mix all ingredients except cheese topping.
-
Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
-
Let it sit at room temp for 20–30 minutes before baking.
-
Follow regular baking instructions.
To Freeze:
-
Assemble, cover with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze unbaked.
-
Label with date and cooking instructions.
-
Freeze for up to 3 months.
-
When ready to cook, thaw overnight in fridge and bake as directed.
To Store Leftovers:
-
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
-
Lasts 3–4 days.
-
Reheat individual servings in microwave or whole dish in oven (add splash of milk if it dries out).
🍲 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
Makes 6 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 kcal |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Sodium | 880mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Calcium | 310mg |
⚠️ Nutritional values vary depending on exact brands and ingredients used.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips for the Perfect Alfredo Casserole
-
Use rotisserie chicken for speed and extra flavor.
-
Cover tightly with foil to trap moisture — essential for properly cooked pasta.
-
Don’t overbake — the pasta can turn mushy if left in the oven too long.
-
Stir during baking if possible to prevent pasta from clumping.
-
Freshly grate cheese instead of using pre-shredded for best melt.
💬 Common Questions (FAQ)
Can I use raw chicken?
Yes, but dice it small (½-inch cubes), and bake the casserole covered for 50–60 minutes to ensure full cooking. Use a meat thermometer to confirm it hits 165°F (74°C).
What’s the best Alfredo sauce to use?
If you're using store-bought, look for:
-
Bertolli
-
Rao’s
-
Classico Four Cheese
Or make your own with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use two 9x13 dishes or one large deep baking pan. You may need to adjust the baking time by 5–10 minutes.
Why is my casserole dry?
A few possible reasons:
-
Not enough liquid (ensure pasta is covered)
-
Overbaking
-
Dish not tightly sealed during baking
Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating leftovers.
🏡 A Family Favorite Worth Repeating
What makes the Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole so appealing is not just the ease of preparation, but the joy it brings to the dinner table. Creamy, cheesy, savory, and comforting — it's everything you want in a homemade dish, but without the hassle. Whether you're a busy parent, a student with limited kitchen skills, or someone who simply craves a satisfying meal with minimal prep, this casserole is your ticket to an effortless dinner win.
It’s easy to see why this dish is a staple in so many homes. You can prep it in the morning, bake it in the evening, and enjoy it again for lunch the next day. It freezes beautifully, pleases picky eaters, and satisfies comfort food cravings every single time.
Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole
The Ultimate Comfort Food with No Fuss, No Stress
If you're looking for a cozy, creamy, no-fuss dinner that practically makes itself, look no further than the Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole. As the name suggests, this dish is all about minimal effort and maximum flavor. No pre-cooking the pasta. No pre-cooking the chicken. No standing over the stove. You literally dump everything into a baking dish, stir it, cover it, and bake it.
It’s the ultimate in comfort food — rich Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and gooey melted cheese all baked together into one irresistible casserole. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is a lifesaver.
🍗 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
✅ One-dish meal — minimal cleanup
-
✅ No boiling pasta ahead of time
-
✅ Great for make-ahead dinners
-
✅ Customizable with pantry ingredients
-
✅ Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly. Here's what you'll need for a classic version:
Main Ingredients:
-
2 cups uncooked penne or rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
-
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie or leftovers work well)
-
1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
-
1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
-
1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
-
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
-
1 cup frozen peas or broccoli florets
-
1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
-
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
-
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
🍽 Equipment Needed
-
9x13-inch baking dish
-
Aluminum foil
-
Mixing spoon or spatula
-
Oven preheated to 375°F (190°C)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You want the oven hot and ready to bake once everything is mixed together.
Step 2: Dump the Ingredients
In your 9x13-inch casserole dish (no need to grease), dump the following:
-
2 cups uncooked pasta
-
2 cups cooked chicken (cubed or shredded)
-
1 jar Alfredo sauce
-
1½ cups chicken broth
-
1 cup cream or milk
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
-
½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper
-
Optional: Add peas, broccoli, or other veggies here
Stir everything together right in the baking dish. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
Step 3: Cover and Bake
-
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
-
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
✅ Tip: Stir halfway through baking (after 20–25 minutes) if you can, for more even pasta cooking.
Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping
Once the pasta is cooked:
-
Remove the foil.
-
Sprinkle 1½ cups shredded mozzarella and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
-
Return to oven (uncovered) and bake for 10–15 minutes more, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
🔥 Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crispy cheesy topping.
Step 5: Let It Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and the pasta firm up. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
🧀 Serving Suggestions
While this dish is delicious on its own, here are a few sides that pair beautifully:
-
Garlic bread or breadsticks – perfect for dipping in the creamy sauce
-
Simple green salad – adds crunch and freshness
-
Roasted or steamed vegetables – broccoli, asparagus, or carrots work well
-
Sautéed spinach or kale – for extra nutrition
🔁 Variations & Customizations
The beauty of this casserole lies in how easy it is to customize. Here are some creative ideas:
1. Protein Options:
-
Shrimp Alfredo Bake – use peeled, cooked shrimp instead of chicken
-
Turkey Alfredo – perfect for using Thanksgiving leftovers
-
Bacon & Chicken – stir in ½ cup crumbled cooked bacon for smoky flavor
2. Vegetarian Version:
-
Skip the chicken and add:
-
Mushrooms
-
Zucchini
-
Spinach
-
Roasted red peppers
-
Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
3. Sauce Upgrades:
-
Use homemade Alfredo sauce for richer flavor (butter, cream, garlic, Parmesan)
-
Add a dollop of cream cheese for a thicker sauce
-
Mix in pesto for an herby twist
4. Pasta Substitutes:
-
Shells, elbows, bowties, or ziti work great
-
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta (check cooking time adjustments)
5. Cheese Lovers’ Upgrade:
-
Add shredded provolone, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or fontina for added depth
-
Top with a mix of breadcrumbs and melted butter for crunch
❄️ Make Ahead & Storage Tips
To Make Ahead:
-
Mix all ingredients except cheese topping.
-
Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
-
Let it sit at room temp for 20–30 minutes before baking.
-
Follow regular baking instructions.
To Freeze:
-
Assemble, cover with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze unbaked.
-
Label with date and cooking instructions.
-
Freeze for up to 3 months.
-
When ready to cook, thaw overnight in fridge and bake as directed.
To Store Leftovers:
-
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
-
Lasts 3–4 days.
-
Reheat individual servings in microwave or whole dish in oven (add splash of milk if it dries out).
🍲 Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
Makes 6 servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 kcal |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Sodium | 880mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Calcium | 310mg |
⚠️ Nutritional values vary depending on exact brands and ingredients used.
🧑🍳 Pro Tips for the Perfect Alfredo Casserole
-
Use rotisserie chicken for speed and extra flavor.
-
Cover tightly with foil to trap moisture — essential for properly cooked pasta.
-
Don’t overbake — the pasta can turn mushy if left in the oven too long.
-
Stir during baking if possible to prevent pasta from clumping.
-
Freshly grate cheese instead of using pre-shredded for best melt.
💬 Common Questions (FAQ)
Can I use raw chicken?
Yes, but dice it small (½-inch cubes), and bake the casserole covered for 50–60 minutes to ensure full cooking. Use a meat thermometer to confirm it hits 165°F (74°C).
What’s the best Alfredo sauce to use?
If you're using store-bought, look for:
-
Bertolli
-
Rao’s
-
Classico Four Cheese
Or make your own with butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just use two 9x13 dishes or one large deep baking pan. You may need to adjust the baking time by 5–10 minutes.
Why is my casserole dry?
A few possible reasons:
-
Not enough liquid (ensure pasta is covered)
-
Overbaking
-
Dish not tightly sealed during baking
Add a splash of broth or milk before reheating leftovers.
🏡 A Family Favorite Worth Repeating
What makes the Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole so appealing is not just the ease of preparation, but the joy it brings to the dinner table. Creamy, cheesy, savory, and comforting — it's everything you want in a homemade dish, but without the hassle. Whether you're a busy parent, a student with limited kitchen skills, or someone who simply craves a satisfying meal with minimal prep, this casserole is your ticket to an effortless dinner win.
It’s easy to see why this dish is a staple in so many homes. You can prep it in the morning, bake it in the evening, and enjoy it again for lunch the next day. It freezes beautifully, pleases picky eaters, and satisfies comfort food cravings every single time.
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