Description
Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake
Add crispy bacon to your pasta bake for an extra savory kick!
Ingredients:
400g rigatoni pasta
2 cups cooked chicken thighs, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup Alfredo sauce
4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated cheddar
Instructions:
Cook pasta and steam broccoli.
Mix pasta, chicken, broccoli, Alfredo sauce, and bacon in a baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and cheddar, then bake at 200°C for 25 minutes.
Because bacon makes everything better!
#BaconBroccoliBake
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect bake every time. First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Cook 400g of rigatoni pasta according to package directions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, steam the broccoli florets for 4-5 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta, steamed broccoli, diced cooked chicken, and the full cup of Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated. Transfer this mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumbled crispy bacon over the top. Finally, evenly distribute the shredded mozzarella and grated cheddar cheese over the entire dish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty bake is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a crunchier texture contrast, serve with garlic bread or breadsticks. It also makes for excellent next-day leftovers, reheating beautifully in the oven or microwave for a quick and satisfying lunch.
How-to Summary
In brief: Cook pasta and broccoli. Mix all main ingredients with sauce in a dish. Top with cheeses and crumbled bacon. Bake at 200°C for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Penne, fusilli, or shells are excellent alternatives that also hold sauce well.
How can I make this dish ahead of time? Assemble the bake completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of Alfredo sauce? A homemade bechamel sauce or a quality store-bought creamy garlic sauce are great substitutes.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor, which holds up better during baking.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a 180°C oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will continue to soften in the oven—aim for al dente. Do not skip steaming the broccoli; adding it raw will result in hard, undercooked florets. Ensure your baking dish is appropriately sized; one too small will lead to overflow, while one too large can cause the sauce to dry out. Finally, resist the urge to overmix once the cheese is added on top, as this can incorporate it into the bake instead of creating a delicious, separate golden crust.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy Alfredo, tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and the undeniable savory punch of crispy bacon under a blanket of melted cheese. It’s a straightforward, crowd-pleasing recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners, this reliable dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. As promised, the bacon truly does make everything better.