Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole

Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory flavors. This baked pasta dish features tender chunks of chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta tossed in a rich sauce, then topped with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole combines the best of everything: juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and comforting pasta all baked together in one dish. It’s easy to make ahead, perfect for feeding a crowd, and customizable with your favorite add-ins. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or something to bring to a potluck, this dish is always a hit. Plus, it makes great leftovers.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
• Cooked chicken breast or thighs (diced or shredded)
• Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Cream cheese or heavy cream
• Milk
• Chicken broth
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
4. Sauté diced onion in the bacon grease over medium heat until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Stir in cream cheese (or heavy cream), milk, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
6. Add cooked chicken, half of the bacon, and drained pasta to the sauce. Stir to combine.
7. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and the remaining bacon.
8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Stir in broccoli, peas, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to give it some heat.
• Try different cheeses: Swap in gouda, pepper jack, or Swiss for a new flavor profile.
• Use rotisserie chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked chicken.
• Low-carb version: Replace pasta with cooked cauliflower or a low-carb pasta alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until hot throughout (about 15–20 minutes). Add a splash of milk or broth if the casserole seems dry.

This casserole also freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?

You’ll need to cook the chicken before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

What kind of pasta works best?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni are perfect because they hold sauce well and bake evenly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Is it possible to make this without bacon?

Yes, but the bacon adds great flavor. You can substitute with turkey bacon or omit entirely if needed.

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken is recommended for better texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Heavy cream, sour cream, or a béchamel sauce are good alternatives depending on your preference.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients (like broth and seasoning) are certified gluten-free.

How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Don’t overbake it, and if needed, cover with foil while baking or add a little extra sauce or cheese.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use two 9×13-inch pans or one large roasting pan for a crowd-sized batch.

What side dishes go well with this?

A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair nicely with this rich, cheesy casserole.

Conclusion

Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and always satisfying. With smoky bacon, tender chicken, and melty cheese in every bite, it’s perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or sharing with friends. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner table.

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