There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm casserole bubbling away in the oven. Imagine layers of tender chicken, rich cheese, and creamy pasta coming together to create a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta that sings of home-cooked goodness. creamy pumpkin alfredo pasta The aroma wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone forget their troubles and gather around the table for a hearty meal. For more inspiration, check out this Crock Pot Crack Chicken Pasta recipe.
I’ll never forget the first time I whipped up this dish for my family during a chaotic weeknight dinner. It was as if I had discovered the culinary equivalent of a warm hug. Everyone fell silent, forks clinking against plates, savoring each cheesy bite. cheesy rigatoni with steak This casserole is perfect for those days when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”]
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze. The creamy layers blend perfectly with savory chicken and ham, creating an irresistible flavor explosion. savory garlic butter tacos Its visual appeal will have your family running to the dinner table, eager for a taste. perfect pasta sauce for casseroles Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite ingredients or leftovers! For more inspiration, check out this Hot Honey Chicken Bowls recipe.
I recall one evening when I served this delightful dish at a family gathering, and my aunt practically cornered me for the recipe—her eyes twinkling with delight.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Thinly Sliced Ham: Opt for high-quality ham as it adds depth to the casserole’s flavor profile.
Shredded Swiss Cheese: Choose fresh cheese for melting; it gives that gooey texture we all love.
Pasta: I prefer using rotini or penne; these shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream: This is essential for that rich creaminess that makes every bite decadent.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle enhances flavor without overpowering other ingredients.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all flavors in your dish.
Breadcrumbs: For that satisfying crispy topping; consider adding some Parmesan for extra flavor!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it heats up, you’ll feel that sweet anticipation of warm comfort food filling your home.
Cook the Pasta: Boil your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare everything else.
Sauté Chicken and Ham: In a skillet over medium heat, add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until they are golden brown and cooked through before adding sliced ham until heated through.
Create Your Sauce Mixture : In a large bowl, mix heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper together until well combined. Add in shredded Swiss cheese and stir until it becomes a luscious mixture.
Combine Everything Together : In a baking dish, layer cooked pasta followed by chicken and ham mixture. Pour sauce over everything evenly before sprinkling breadcrumbs on top for that golden finish.
Bake Until Golden Brown : Place your casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Enjoy that wonderful aroma!
Now take a moment to revel in your chef status as your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta bakes! You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns golden brown and bubbly; trust me; it’ll be hard not to sneak a taste before serving!
Enjoy this delightful meal straight from the oven or let it cool before serving—it tastes just as good reheated! You might want to double this recipe because leftovers (if there are any) make fantastic lunches or midnight snacks!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is a comforting dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and pasta. Ensure you don’t skip the crispy topping; it adds delightful texture and flavor. The smells wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta while you sauté the chicken. Once browned, add in the ham and cheese before mixing everything together for a perfect casserole.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even use different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a unique flavor twist. Adding veggies like broccoli can also elevate this dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve a golden crust, broil the casserole briefly at the end of cooking. Use fresh herbs for added flavor, and don’t forget to season your chicken generously before cooking. These small touches make a big difference! [/info_box]
While making this casserole for my friends’ potluck, I was amazed at how quickly it vanished. They still ask me when I’m making it again!
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken in this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time during preparation.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any short pasta like penne or fusilli holds up well and captures all that cheesy goodness.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pasta and adding extra veggies to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta
Experience the warmth of home-cooked goodness with this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta. Layers of tender chicken, savory ham, and creamy Swiss cheese meld together in a comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. This delightful casserole is not just a meal; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share moments with loved ones.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 8 oz thinly sliced ham
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 cups rotini or penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- 2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- 3. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown. Add sliced ham and heat through.
- 4. In a large bowl, mix heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and shredded Swiss cheese until smooth.
- 5. In a baking dish, layer cooked pasta followed by the chicken and ham mixture. Pour sauce over the top and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly.
- 6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Feel free to substitute turkey for chicken or use different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for added flavor. Adding vegetables such as broccoli can enhance both nutrition and taste. For extra crispiness, broil the casserole briefly at the end of cooking.
