Craving a cozy, cheesy dish that comes together in no time? This 30-minute pasta bake is the answer. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and indulgent cheddar, it’s comfort food at its finest. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe takes the stress out of dinner and delivers pure satisfaction on a plate.
Imagine the smell of melted cheese wafting through your kitchen while this hearty bake bubbles away in the oven. It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress your family or guests. Plus, it’s a fun way to sneak in some veggies, making it a win-win for everyone at the table.
Effortless Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake
This delightful dish brings together creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli for a satisfying meal. The vibrant colors and textures are sure to impress at the dinner table.
As the ingredients meld together during baking, they create a rich and comforting flavor that resonates with both kids and adults. Perfect for any occasion, this pasta bake offers a wonderful way to enjoy a wholesome dinner without the hassle.
Gathering the Ingredients
To prepare this scrumptious pasta bake, gather the essential ingredients. You’ll need your choice of pasta, cooked chicken, and fresh broccoli florets. A combination of shredded cheddar and cream of chicken soup will form the base of the cheesy sauce.
Seasonings like garlic and onion powder elevate the dish, while optional grated parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor. Don’t forget some chopped parsley for garnish, which adds a pop of color, making the bake visually appealing.
Preparation Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for the bake. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and prepare to combine it with the other ingredients.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and steamed broccoli. Add in the cream of chicken soup, milk, and seasonings, mixing well to incorporate everything evenly. This step is crucial for ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying.
Cheesy Goodness
Next, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a small amount for topping. If you’re using parmesan, mix that in as well for extra richness. Pour the entire mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with the reserved cheddar cheese, which will melt into a gooey, golden crust as it bakes. It’s this bubbling cheese that truly makes the dish irresistible.
Baking to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the cheese melts and bubbles, turning a beautiful golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be enough to whet anyone’s appetite.
Once done, allow the bake to cool slightly before serving. This wait will help the dish set a bit, making it easier to scoop out portions when serving.
Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your cheesy broccoli chicken pasta bake with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve it hot and watch as everyone at the table digs in with delight. This dish is a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty meal packed with flavor and nutrition.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it ensures you can enjoy a comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Get your serving spoon ready, as this bake is bound to become a family favorite!
Effortless Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake
This delightful pasta bake features a creamy cheese sauce, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli, all baked to perfection. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich and comforting dish that your taste buds will love.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (your choice, such as penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Add Cheese: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a handful for topping. If using, add the grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle with reserved cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
