Easy Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole Recipe:

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor, look no further than this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole.

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—you just toss all the ingredients together, bake, and voila! Dinner is served.

This casserole features a creamy Alfredo sauce, tender rotini pasta, and juicy chicken, all baked to perfection with a golden, gooey cheese topping. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) package uncooked rotini pasta
• 22 oz jar Alfredo sauce (about 1 very large 22-ounce jar or 1 ½ 15-ounce jars, approximately 2 ½ cups total)
• 3 cups chicken stock (or substitute with chicken broth)
• 2 cups diced or shredded rotisserie chicken (or use any leftover cooked chicken)
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 large cloves)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or Italian blend cheese)
• Optional garnish: Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, or parsley)

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole even easier, it helps to have the right kitchen tools on hand. These simple items will ensure your casserole comes together effortlessly and cooks to perfection.

1. Large Baking Dish

A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe. It provides enough space for the pasta, sauce, and chicken to bake evenly. If you don’t have a 9×13-inch dish, a slightly smaller one will work—just make sure it’s oven-safe and can accommodate all the ingredients.

2. Measuring Cups and Spoons

For accuracy in measuring the ingredients, be sure to have your measuring cups and spoons handy. This ensures you get the right balance of sauce, stock, and seasoning to make the casserole just right.

3. Aluminum Foil

You’ll need aluminum foil to cover the baking dish while the casserole bakes in the oven. This helps the pasta cook in the sauce and steam to tenderness without drying out.

4. Large Spoon or Spatula

A spoon or spatula will be useful for mixing the ingredients together in the baking dish. It helps to evenly distribute the chicken, garlic, and sauce with the uncooked pasta.

Having these simple tools will make your cooking process faster and more efficient, leading to a delicious meal in no time!

How to Make Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and kitchen tools, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of making this easy and delicious casserole. Don’t worry, there’s no complicated prep here—just a few simple steps to follow.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will help the casserole cook quickly and evenly, giving you that golden cheese topping you crave.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Baking Dish

In a large baking dish (preferably 9×13 inches), add the uncooked rotini pasta, Alfredo sauce, chicken stock, diced or shredded rotisserie chicken, and minced garlic. Stir everything together to combine. You’ll want to make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce mixture.

Step 3: Cover and Bake

Once the ingredients are mixed, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. This initial baking time allows the pasta to cook in the sauce, absorbing all that rich, creamy flavor.

Step 4: Stir and Check for Doneness

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and give the casserole a good stir. This is the perfect time to check the pasta’s doneness—taste a piece to ensure it’s cooked al dente (firm but tender). If the pasta isn’t quite there yet, simply cover the dish again and return it to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the pasta is cooked to your liking.

Final Touches and Serving

Step 5: Add the Mozzarella and Bake Again

Once the pasta is cooked, it’s time to add the finishing touch—mozzarella cheese! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend cheese) evenly over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This will create that perfect golden, cheesy crust on top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

When the casserole is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra pop of flavor and color, you can garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano. The fresh herbs add a beautiful touch and enhance the dish’s flavor.

Optional Side Dishes

If you’re looking to round out the meal, serve your Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal. This casserole pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides that complement the rich, creamy flavors of the main dish.

Storage Instructions

How to Keep Your Casserole Fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Freezing for Later

You can also freeze the casserole before baking! Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook it, bake from frozen at 425°F (220°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until fully cooked through and bubbly. If you prefer to freeze after baking, you can do so as well, though the texture of the pasta may change slightly after reheating.

Conclusion

This Dump-and-Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner, combining simplicity with comfort food goodness. With minimal prep, no-boil pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, the flexibility of using rotisserie chicken and the option to freeze leftovers makes it even more convenient. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day, this casserole is sure to bring smiles to the table. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously easy meal!