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Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole

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This Chicken and Bacon Pasta Casserole is the ultimate cozy, cheesy comfort food. Juicy chicken and crispy bacon are mixed with tender pasta and a creamy, cheesy sauce—then baked to golden perfection. It’s a family favorite and great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Cook pasta in salted water according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook for 5–6 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Set aside.

  4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.

  5. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

  6. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Mix until smooth.

  7. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and most of the crumbled bacon to the sauce. Stir to coat evenly.

  8. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top.

  9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

  10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Add a handful of spinach or frozen peas for a veggie boost.

  • Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.

  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.