There’s something undeniably delightful about a warm, cheesy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta. Picture this: tender chicken mingling with layers of gooey Swiss cheese, crispy ham, and the comforting embrace of pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo for a twist The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a siren song, beckoning everyone to gather around the table. It’s not just dinner; it’s an experience that warms the heart and tickles the taste buds.
Ah, the memories! I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. They practically threw their forks into orbit with excitement after the first bite. It was like winning a culinary lottery! Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a casual gathering with friends, this casserole is your go-to comfort food that promises smiles all around. Philly Cheesesteak for more comfort food.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta combines effortless preparation with an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The stunning visuals will impress your guests without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Its versatility allows you to serve it for any occasion – from cozy dinners to festive gatherings. Plus, you can easily customize ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs. [/info_box]
I still chuckle thinking about my cousin’s face when he discovered there were no leftovers left after dinner. He had been eyeing that last piece like it was a golden ticket!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Ham: Use thinly sliced deli ham for easy layering and maximum flavor.
Swiss Cheese: Opt for a good quality Swiss cheese for that perfect gooey meltiness.
Pasta: Any pasta works here; I love using elbow macaroni for its fun shape!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This makes the base creamy and dreamy – don’t skip it! Creamy Shrimp Bisque for a side option.
Milk: Helps blend everything together; whole milk adds richness.
Butter: For greasing your baking dish and adding flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Top it off with some breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
Seasonings (Salt & Pepper): Essential for bringing out all those wonderful flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces and season them lightly with salt and pepper.
Cook the Pasta
Boil water in a pot and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well; it will soak up all those delicious flavors later.
Sauté Chicken and Ham
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and add the diced chicken. Cook until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes. Toss in your sliced ham during the last couple of minutes just to warm it up.
Create the Creamy Sauce
In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup with milk until smooth. Fold in half of the Swiss cheese to create that creamy goodness that’ll envelop everything in warmth.
Combine Everything in a Baking Dish
In your greased casserole dish, combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken and ham, and pour over that luscious sauce. Mix gently until everything is perfectly coated.
Add Toppings and Bake!
Sprinkle remaining Swiss cheese on top along with breadcrumbs for crunch. Bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Now sit back as your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that even your neighbors will envy! Serve hot and watch as everyone dives in!
This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta is not just another meal; it’s an invitation to gather around good food and even better company. Cheesy Rigatoni for a hearty meal Enjoy every cheesy bite!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta combines flavors and textures in a delightful way. The creamy sauce envelops tender chicken and pasta, making it a cozy meal that warms the soul. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s sure to impress. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This ensures everything is ready at the same time, making your casserole luscious and perfectly cooked. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Mozzarella Pasta recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor. Toss in some spinach or broccoli for a nutritional boost that also adds color to your dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, keeping it creamy and delicious.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use high-quality cheese for melting perfection; it enhances flavor significantly. Don’t overcook pasta; it should be al dente since it continues cooking in the casserole. A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving brightens up the dish beautifully! [/info_box]
Some friends once remarked that my Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta was so good they’d fight over leftovers! It’s a crowd-pleaser that always sparks joy at family dinners. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Sloppy Cheeseburger Pasta recipe.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss, mozzarella, and cheddar all work well in this casserole.
How long can I store this casserole?
It stays fresh in the fridge for about three days when stored properly.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The cheesy goodness makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole with Pasta. This delightful dish features tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all enveloped in a rich creamy sauce and baked to perfection. It’s an easy yet impressive meal that promises to bring joy to any family gathering or cozy night in. Gather your loved ones and savor every cheesy bite!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 8 oz thinly sliced deli ham
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (divided)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp butter (for greasing)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter, add chicken, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Add ham for the last two minutes to warm it.
- In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup with milk until smooth. Fold in half of the Swiss cheese.
- In a greased casserole dish, combine cooked pasta, sautéed chicken and ham, and pour the sauce over it. Mix gently.
- Top with remaining Swiss cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
