Description
This Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Bake is a creamy, comforting casserole combining tender cooked chicken, lightly steamed broccoli, and al dente pasta all smothered in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it makes an easy and satisfying family meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (lightly steamed)
- 12 oz penne or pasta of choice (cooked al dente)
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
Other
- Nonstick spray or butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Make Alfredo Sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook another minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth. Bring this to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded or cubed chicken, lightly steamed broccoli florets, and the prepared Alfredo sauce. Mix thoroughly so everything is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Assemble and Top. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the mozzarella is melted and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve. Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce settle for easier portioning and enhanced flavor melding.
Notes
- You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken to reduce prep time.
- Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Stir in cooked mushrooms or other vegetables for additional flavor and variety.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking; bake when ready to serve.
