There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy pasta bake—especially one filled with tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and bubbling layers of gooey cheese.
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake has become one of my absolute favorite weeknight dinners. It’s easy to throw together, deeply satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort.
Why I Love This Recipe
Comes together quickly with simple, store-bought ingredients
A rich, garlicky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta
Perfect for feeding a hungry family or bringing to a potluck
Deliciously cheesy with a golden, bubbly top
Reheats beautifully—ideal for leftovers
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Rotini pasta: Holds sauces well and adds great texture
Cooked chicken: Use shredded rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken
Alfredo sauce + garlic parmesan sauce: A creamy combo with depth and flavor
Mozzarella & Parmesan cheese: For a rich, melty finish
Salt, pepper, and fresh parsley: Simple touches that elevate the dish
Pro Tips Before You Start
Reserve pasta water. It’s a great way to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
Use fresh shredded cheese. It melts better than pre-packaged options.
Don’t overbake. You want it creamy—not dried out.
Customize with add-ins. Sautéed mushrooms or spinach are great extras.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Step 1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
Step 2. Mix the Pasta Base
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rotini, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan.
Season with salt and pepper.
Add about ½ cup of reserved pasta water if the mixture is too thick.
Step 3. Assemble the Bake
Pour the creamy pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 4. Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Step 5. Bake Covered
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
Step 6. Broil for a Golden Finish (Optional)
Remove the foil and broil for 2–3 minutes to brown the top.
Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 7. Garnish and Serve
Let the pasta bake cool for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
What to Serve It With
Garlic bread or breadsticks
A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Roasted broccoli or asparagus
A glass of chilled white wine
Variations / Substitutions
Swap the protein: Try cooked shrimp, sausage, or turkey
Add vegetables: Sautéed spinach, peas, or roasted bell peppers add color and nutrition
Use different pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work just as well
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze: Freeze portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months
Reheat: Microwave with a splash of milk or reheat in the oven covered until warm
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely. Store-bought is convenient, but homemade is always delicious.
What’s the best pasta for Alfredo bake?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or ziti works best—they hold the sauce well.
Do I have to broil it?
Not at all. It’s optional for that golden cheesy top, but the bake is delicious either way.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes! Try spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
How do I avoid drying out the pasta?
Don’t overbake, and use pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I make this without chicken?
Sure! Replace it with veggies or use a meatless protein like chickpeas or tofu.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is one of those no-fail comfort recipes I always turn to when I need something filling, cozy, and satisfying.
It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and even better the next day.
If you’re craving cheesy, creamy, baked goodness—this dish is your new best friend.
Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, half the mozzarella and Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Spread mixture evenly into the baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/creamy-chicken-alfredo-pasta-bake-2/
Notes
- Feel free to use any short pasta like penne or fusilli.
- Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.
- Add a handful of spinach or steamed broccoli to sneak in veggies.
