Are you ready to indulge in a dish that combines creamy goodness with cheesy perfection? Look no further than this Creamy Cheesy Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake! This Italian-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a comforting meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up a delightful dinner that serves six and warms the heart. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a cheesy masterpiece that will make you the star of your kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the oven is hot and ready for the pasta bake when you assemble it.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 2 cups of fresh spinach, 1 cup of cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add the cooked pasta to the mixing bowl and gently fold it into the chicken and spinach mixture. Make sure the pasta is well coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir again to incorporate the seasoning evenly throughout the dish.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella cheese on top if desired for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the dish set slightly and make it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your creamy cheesy chicken spinach pasta bake!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures that your pasta retains the perfect texture.
- Mix it Up: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: For an even cheesier experience, don’t hesitate to add more mozzarella on top before baking, or mix in some cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the cheese mixture for an aromatic twist that elevates the overall taste.
- Make Ahead: This pasta bake can be prepared in advance! Assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the pasta bake to sit for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps it set, making it easier to serve and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 416kcal
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 103mg
