Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Casserole Recipe
Comforting, rich, and utterly indulgent—Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Casserole is everything you could want in a recipe. Imagine succulent chicken, smoky ham, and gooey Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce, tossed with tender pasta, and baked until golden and bubbly.
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large pot
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven-safe casserole dish
Ingredients
- Pasta such as penne or rigatoni: 12 ounces, cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
- Heavy cream: 1 ½ cups to create that velvety, luxurious sauce.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups divided, for a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Parmesan cheese grated: ½ cup, adds a touch of nutty sophistication to the dish.
- Butter unsalted: 3 tablespoons, enhancing the creaminess and adding depth.
- Flour all-purpose: 2 tablespoons, for creating the base of the roux.
- Milk whole: 1 cup, bringing balance to the dairy-rich sauce.
- Garlic minced: 2 cloves, infusing a subtle aromatic layer.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon or to taste, to season the components perfectly.
- Black pepper freshly ground: ½ teaspoon, adding a gentle kick of heat.
- Breadcrumbs optional: ½ cup, for a golden, crisp topping.
- Fresh parsley chopped: 2 tablespoons, for a bright garnish to finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cooking your favorite pasta, like penne or fusilli, until it’s firm but not too soft (al dente). Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Ham
- In a pan, cook diced chicken pieces over medium heat until they are golden and fully cooked. Make sure the chicken stays tender. Cut or shred slices of ham into small pieces, and mix them with the chicken. These will be the main ingredients of your dish.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Melt butter in a pan, then mix in some flour to make a smooth paste. Slowly add warm milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce. Add shredded Swiss cheese and stir until it melts. Season with a little salt, pepper, and a small spoon of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
Step 4: Put the Casserole Together
- In a big baking dish, layer the cooked pasta, chicken, ham, and creamy sauce. Spread everything evenly so you get a bit of each in every bite. Make sure to add plenty of sauce to cover everything.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Grate some Swiss cheese and sprinkle it over the casserole. Mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter, then spread the crumbs on top of the cheese. This will give your casserole a golden, crunchy topping.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling. Take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top for color and serve warm. Each bite will be creamy, savory, and crispy. Share and enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!
Notes
For best results, use high-quality ingredients like freshly grated cheese and deli-style ham to elevate the flavor of this dish. Don’t skip letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking—it allows the creamy sauce to settle, ensuring every bite is perfectly luscious and satisfying.