Chicken Alfredo Bake
Chicken Alfredo Bake is a easy Italian-American recipe that serves 6. 740 calories per serving. Recipe by Eating on a Dime on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 46 min | Total: 1 hr 13 min
Cost: $8.55 total, $1.43 per serving
Ingredients
- 16 oz Penne Pasta (dry, uncooked)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic (fresh minced garlic)
- 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (for roux)
- 2 cups Whole Milk (2% or whole milk)
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream (heavy whipping cream)
- 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (divided: 0.5 cup in sauce, 0.5 cup for topping)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (kosher or table salt)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 3 cups Cooked Chicken (diced cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped, optional garnish)
- 1 spray Non‑Stick Cooking Spray (lightly coat baking dish)
Instructions
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Set the oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13‑inch baking dish with non‑stick cooking spray.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Cook Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the penne, and cook until al dente according to package directions, usually 10‑12 minutes. Drain using a colander.
Time: PT12M
Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook, whisking occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (5‑7 minutes). Stir in the grated Parmesan, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Time: PT10M
Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl combine the cooked penne, diced cooked chicken, and the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT3M
Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Topping
Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded mozzarella over the top.
Time: PT3M
Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15‑20 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the cheese on top is beautifully golden.
Time: PT18M
Temperature: 350°F
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, let rest for 2 minutes, then sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top if desired. Serve hot.
Time: PT2M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 740
- Protein
- 13g
- Carbohydrates
- 34g
- Fat
- 30g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten, High protein, Comfort food
Allergens: Milk, Cheese, Wheat (gluten)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Penne Pasta: Rigatoni, Ziti
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine, Olive oil (will change flavor)
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon)
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Gluten‑free flour blend
- Instead of Whole Milk: Half‑and‑half (richer)
- Instead of Heavy Cream: Half‑and‑half (less thick)
- Instead of Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano
- Instead of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Monterey Jack
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Cooked Chicken: Cooked turkey, Cooked ham
- Instead of Fresh Parsley: Italian seasoning
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Large Skillet
- Whisk
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- 9×13‑inch Baking Dish
- Spatula
- Oven
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cook the penne al dente so it retains texture after baking
- Whisk the sauce continuously to achieve a smooth, thick consistency without lumps
- Bake until the cheese is golden and the sauce is bubbling for optimal flavor and texture
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melt; pre‑grated cheese contains anti‑caking agents that can affect texture
- For extra depth, add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce
- If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle a little panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking
Troubleshooting
Sauce is too thin
Continue simmering while whisking, or add a splash of reserved pasta water to help it thicken.
Sauce curdles or separates
Reduce heat to low, whisk vigorously, and add a tablespoon of cold milk to bring it back together.
Baked pasta is dry
Stir in a few tablespoons of milk or extra cream before baking, and cover with foil for the first half of baking.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer‑safe container for up to 2 months; reheat covered at 350°F until hot
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the top cheese, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking
- The baked dish reheats well; reheat covered at 350°F for 20‑25 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake in Italian‑American cuisine?
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake is an American adaptation of the classic Italian Alfredo sauce, which originated in early 20th‑century Rome as a simple butter‑and‑parmesan mixture. In the United States, the sauce was enriched with cream and often combined with pasta, chicken, and baked, creating a hearty comfort‑food staple for family meals.
How does Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake differ from traditional Italian Alfredo pasta?
Traditional Italian Alfredo is a stovetop dish of fettuccine tossed with butter, Parmesan, and sometimes cream, served immediately. The baked version adds cooked chicken, extra mozzarella, and a golden crust from the oven, turning it into a casserole that’s more filling and suitable for leftovers.
What regional variations of baked Alfredo dishes exist within the United States?
In the Midwest, baked alfredo often includes broccoli or spinach for added nutrition. In the South, a touch of Cajun seasoning may be added for heat. Some West Coast versions swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or add smoked salmon for a coastal twist.
During what occasions is Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake traditionally served in American families?
It’s a popular weeknight dinner because it’s quick and comforting, but it also appears at pot‑lucks, family gatherings, and casual holiday meals where a crowd‑pleasing, cheesy casserole is desired.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake, and what are acceptable substitutes?
Key ingredients are butter, garlic, all‑purpose flour, whole milk, heavy cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, and chicken. Acceptable substitutes include using half‑and‑half for milk, a gluten‑free flour blend, or shredded cheddar in place of mozzarella, though flavor will shift slightly.
What other Italian‑American dishes pair well with Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake?
Serve it alongside a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic‑bread, or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini to balance the richness of the casserole.
What makes Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake special or unique in Italian‑American cuisine?
Its combination of a classic, silky Alfredo sauce with baked, cheesy crust and added protein creates a one‑dish meal that satisfies both comfort‑food cravings and the desire for a complete, hearty dinner.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake?
Common errors include overcooking the pasta (it will continue to soften in the bake), not thickening the sauce enough (resulting in a watery casserole), and baking at too high a temperature, which can burn the cheese before the interior is hot.
Why does this Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake recipe use a roux of butter and flour instead of simply adding cream and cheese?
The roux creates a stable thickening base that prevents the sauce from separating and gives it a velvety texture; adding cream and cheese alone can result in a thin or grainy sauce.
Can I make Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake ahead of time and how should I store it before baking?
Yes. Assemble the casserole up to the point of adding the top mozzarella, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, add the cheese and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if the dish is cold.
What does the YouTube channel Eating on a Dime specialize in?
The YouTube channel Eating on a Dime specializes in budget‑friendly, family‑focused recipes that deliver big flavor without expensive ingredients, often featuring quick weeknight meals and clever ways to stretch pantry staples.
How does the YouTube channel Eating on a Dime's approach to Italian‑American cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Eating on a Dime emphasizes cost‑saving techniques, such as using leftover rotisserie chicken and pantry staples, while still preserving authentic flavors, whereas many other channels may focus on premium ingredients or elaborate plating.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
