Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe
If you are looking for a cozy, indulgent meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish gracefully combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious, creamy cheese sauce that melts into every bite. It’s the kind of casserole that gets better with each bite, delivering comfort and satisfaction that makes family dinners or gatherings extra special. The rich flavors and gooey textures come together effortlessly, making this a true favorite to keep in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe is wonderfully simple, yet each ingredient plays an essential role to build those crave-worthy flavors and textures. From the sharpness of the cheese to the gentle kick of red pepper flakes, every component contributes perfectly.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups): Bite-sized pieces deliver hearty protein and tender texture.
- Cooked pasta (4 cups): Choose penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni to hold onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
- Butter (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create that velvety base for the sauce.
- Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Provides subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the casserole with savory warmth.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Essential for thickening the creamy cheese sauce.
- Sour cream (½ cup): Adds tanginess and smooth texture to the sauce.
- Milk (1 cup): Balances the sauce with a mild creaminess.
- Shredded cheese (3 cups, divided): A mix of cheddar, Colby Jack, and Swiss makes the casserole irresistibly gooey and flavorful.
- Red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon): Just enough heat to perk up the dish without overwhelming it.
- Salt and black pepper: Adjusted to taste to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then soften your finely chopped onion and minced garlic together until fragrant and tender. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about a minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Next, gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream, smoothing out any lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring nonstop until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Finally, remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 ½ cups of your shredded cheese, letting it melt into the luscious sauce.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to add the stars of the dish—the cooked chicken and pasta—right into your cheesy sauce. Season with salt, black pepper, and that pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Stir everything together until your pasta and chicken are completely coated in cheesy comfort.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top for a golden, bubbly crust. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top has achieved that perfect golden brown hue. Get ready to dish out some pure comfort food bliss!
How to Serve Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cheesy chicken pasta casserole by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a subtle hint of brightness that complements the rich, cheesy base beautifully.
Side Dishes
For a balanced meal, pair this casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed seasonal vegetables. The fresh, crunchy textures and acidity help cut through the richness, making each forkful even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned, elegant presentations. Alternatively, top with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs for an extra layer of texture that surprises every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully, so you’ll have tasty meals ready for busy days.
Freezing
If you want to keep this comforting dish longer, freeze it before baking for up to 3 months. Just assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover well, and pop it into the freezer. Bake straight from frozen but add extra cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2 to 3 minutes or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until hot and bubbly again. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help maintain creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While penne, cavatappi, and rigatoni work wonderfully here because of their shape and texture, you can substitute other sturdy pastas like rotini, shells, or even elbow macaroni to suit your pantry or preference.
What cheeses work best in Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe?
A combination is best for depth of flavor, such as cheddar for sharpness, Colby Jack for creaminess, and Swiss for a mild, nutty note. Feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses to make this recipe your own.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to retain heartiness and boost nutrition while keeping all that cheesy goodness.
Is this casserole spicy?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth that enhances the overall flavor without being overpowering. You can adjust the amount up or down depending on your heat preference.
Can I prepare this dish in advance for a party?
Definitely, Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it the day before and refrigerate; then bake just before serving for a deliciously easy crowd-pleaser.
Final Thoughts
Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe captures everything that makes comfort food irresistible: gooey cheese, tender chicken, and creamy pasta baked into a golden masterpiece. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and warms both heart and home. I encourage you to try it soon and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Paula Deen’s Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Paula Deen’s Amazing Chicken Casserole is a comforting baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken and pasta enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce with a hint of spice. This hearty casserole combines sautéed onions and garlic, a velvety sour cream and milk-based sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners, it offers rich flavors with simple ingredients and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups cooked pasta (penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni), drained
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, Swiss, or a combination), divided
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Make Sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened and fragrant. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk and sour cream until the mixture is smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Remove from heat and stir in 2 ½ cups of the shredded cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken pieces, cooked pasta, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients and coat the pasta and chicken thoroughly with the cheesy sauce.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it to come to temperature while preparing the casserole dish.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the combined chicken and pasta mixture into it. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown and slightly crisped.
Notes
- You can switch up the cheese blend to your preference or use what you have on hand; a mix of sharp cheddar and Swiss offers a nice balance of flavor.
- For extra spice, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to maintain texture.
- Make sure the pasta is drained well to avoid a watery casserole.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
