Chicken Alfredo Bake: Irresistible Cheesy Comfort in 20 Minutes

I’m Emma, and food has always been a central part of my life, bringing joy and connection to my family and friends. One of my favorite dishes to prepare is a comforting Chicken Alfredo Bake, but today, let’s explore a delightful variation with beef that’s equally hearty and satisfying. The magic of cooking lies in transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and this recipe is no exception.

At GrandMmaDelights, I aim to inspire you to embrace the beauty of home cooking. This beef and cheese pasta bake is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones. With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Cooking from scratch is not just about the food; it’s about creating memories and sharing moments with those we care about. This recipe invites you to gather around the table and enjoy the delicious journey of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and make a meal that celebrates the joy of cooking.

The Chicken Alfredo Bake has been a staple in many kitchens, and while today’s focus is on a beef and cheese variation, the essence of comfort and delight remains the same. With a few simple steps, you can create an unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Chicken Alfredo Bake

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

Discover how to make a delicious Chicken Alfredo Bake with this easy recipe! Creamy alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese come together in this comforting dish. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

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Ingredients

• – 12 ounces (340 g) penne pasta, cooked in salted water according to package directions
• – 3 cups (710 ml) diced cooked beef
• – 3 tablespoons (45 g) vegetable oil
• – 2 tablespoons (15 g) cornstarch
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) minced garlic
• – 2 cups (470 ml) whole milk
• – 1 cup (240 ml) coconut cream
• – 3/4 cup (75 g) grated vegetarian hard cheese
• – 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided use
• – salt and pepper to taste
• – cooking spray
• – 1 tablespoon (15 ml) parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 3-quart casserole dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Whisk in the cornstarch and cook for an additional minute.
3. Gradually add the whole milk and coconut cream, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Incorporate the grated vegetarian hard cheese and 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella into the sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine the cooked pasta and diced beef in a large mixing bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over them and mix until everything is well-coated.
7. Transfer the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, then evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Bake the dish, uncovered, for 20 minutes or until the pasta is bubbly and the cheese begins to turn golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

• Consider enhancing the flavor by combining different cheeses or sprinkling Parmesan on top before baking.
• Add a spicy kick by mixing in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Switch up the protein with options like chicken or tofu for a unique twist on this classic dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 25g
• Protein: 30g

Keywords: chicken pasta bake, creamy pasta bake, cheesy chicken pasta, baked penne pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, creamy chicken bake

Creating the Ultimate Beef and Cheese Pasta Bake

Fundamentals

Understanding the basics of a great pasta bake is essential. The foundation lies in the combination of perfectly cooked pasta, a creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful beef. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering a well-balanced dish that satisfies the senses.

Penne pasta serves as the ideal base due to its ability to hold onto the rich sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Meanwhile, the diced cooked beef adds a hearty element, making this bake a filling option for any meal.

Preparation/setup

Begin by cooking the penne pasta in salted water according to the package directions. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect al dente texture, which is essential for the overall consistency of the bake.

Once the pasta is ready, set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 3-quart casserole dish with cooking spray. This setup ensures that the bake will not stick to the dish, allowing for easy serving and cleanup.

Mastering the Cheese Sauce

Technique

Preparing the cheese sauce is a critical step in achieving a creamy, luscious texture. Start by heating vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sautéing it for about 30 seconds to release its aroma.

Next, whisk in the cornstarch, cooking it for an additional minute. This step helps thicken the sauce, providing a rich consistency that clings to the pasta and beef. Gradually incorporate the whole milk and coconut cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Tips/tricks

To achieve a smooth, velvety sauce, ensure that you add the milk and coconut cream slowly while whisking continuously. This technique prevents the formation of lumps and ensures an even distribution of flavor.

Once the sauce begins to thicken, incorporate the grated vegetarian hard cheese and half a cup of shredded mozzarella. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, continuing to stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce reaches a smooth consistency.

Perfecting the Beef and Cheese Pasta Bake

Perfecting results

Combining the elements of this dish is where the magic happens. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and diced beef. Pour the prepared cheese sauce over the mixture, ensuring that everything is well-coated and evenly distributed.

Transfer the pasta and beef mixture into the prepared baking dish. This step is crucial for achieving a uniform bake, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top to create a golden, bubbly layer as it bakes.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you encounter any issues with the sauce consistency, a quick fix is to add a little more milk or coconut cream to reach the desired texture. Alternatively, if the sauce is too thin, a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold milk can help thicken it up.

For those seeking variety, consider adding vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the mix. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value of the dish, offering a delightful twist on the classic Shrimp and Tortellini Alfredo Bake.

Serving and Storing Your Pasta Bake

Serving/presentation

Once the bake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. Presentation is key, as it enhances the dining experience by making the meal visually appealing.

This pasta bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables, providing a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. For more inspiration, explore our recipes like the Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken for additional side ideas.

Pairings/storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at a low temperature to maintain the dish’s original texture.

This bake is versatile enough to be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with other dishes for a complete feast. For those seeking variations, consider exploring our Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce for another delightful dining experience.

Conclusion

This beef and cheese pasta bake is a testament to the comfort and joy that home-cooked meals can bring. By mastering the fundamentals of a creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, you can create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.

The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe showcases the magic of transforming simple ingredients into a memorable meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this bake is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

For more delicious recipes and inspiration, consider exploring dishes like the Better Than Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Bake or Sous Vide Chicken Breasts with Lemon Garlic and Rosemary to expand your culinary repertoire.

FAQs – Chicken Alfredo Bake