Cheesy Baked Pasta Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, cheesy baked pasta casserole. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish combines the heartiness of pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce and fresh vegetables, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound penne pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
• 2 cups fresh spinach (roughly chopped)
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 jar (15 ounces) Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup pesto sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a large bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, pesto sauce, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix in the cooked chicken, chopped spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
   • Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
   • Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
6. Serve:
   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for a Perfect Pasta Casserole:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix in other cheeses such as cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Keywords

• Cheesy baked pasta casserole
• Comfort food recipes
• Easy family dinners
• Pasta bake
• Chicken and spinach pasta
• Baked pasta dishes
• Casserole recipes
• Italian-inspired dishes
• Hearty meals
• Quick dinner ideas

This cheesy baked pasta casserole is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables make it a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!

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