Chicken and Spinach Pasta Casserole 🍲

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with this delectable Chicken and Spinach Pasta Casserole recipe! 🍗🍝 This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. And if you’re not the biggest fan of spinach, fear not – the vibrant flavors in this casserole will surely win you over! Say goodbye to bland spinach dishes, because this recipe promises to cover those greens up so well, even Popeye would be impressed! 💪

Ingredients:

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this savory casserole to life:

1 1/2 cups of bacon
6 tablespoons of sour cream
2 cups of frozen chopped spinach
1 1/3 teaspoons of garlic powder
1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese
1 cup of French Fried Onions
1/8 teaspoon of black pepper
1 1/2 cups of cooked chicken breast, diced
1 pound of pasta of your choice

Instructions:

Let’s dive into the cooking process step by step:

1. Preheat and Prep:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is prepared.
Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Bacon and Chicken:

Cook your bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. You can either use a skillet on the stove or the microwave – whichever method you prefer.
While your bacon is cooking, cook your chicken until it’s fully cooked through. Once done, drain any excess liquid and set aside.

3. Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bacon and chicken with 2/3 cup of French Fried Onions. This flavorful mixture will form the base of your casserole.
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, frozen chopped spinach, garlic powder, black pepper, and 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. This creamy and cheesy blend will add richness and depth to your casserole, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor!

4. Layer and Bake:

Grease a 12×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Begin by spooning half of the cooked pasta mixture into the bottom of the greased baking dish, creating an even layer.
Next, spread half of the spinach and cheese mixture evenly over the pasta layer, ensuring it covers the surface.
Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and spinach mixture, creating a delightful lasagna-like effect that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious!

5. Bake to Perfection:

Once your layers are assembled, it’s time to bake! Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for approximately 30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbling around the edges.
After the initial bake, top your casserole with the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese and 2/3 cup of French Fried Onions for an irresistible crispy topping.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the onions are golden brown.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once your Chicken and Spinach Pasta Casserole is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Slice into generous portions and serve warm, allowing everyone to dig into the layers of savory goodness.
Whether you’re enjoying it as a comforting family dinner or sharing it with friends at a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit!

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 414.8
Fat Content: 27.2g
Saturated Fat Content: 13.2g
Cholesterol Content: 90mg
Sodium Content: 699.7mg
Carbohydrate Content: 17.8g
Fiber Content: 2g
Sugar Content: 2.7g
Protein Content: 25g

Tips and Variations:

Make it Kid-Friendly: If you’re serving this dish to picky eaters, feel free to customize it by adding their favorite veggies or substituting the spinach with a milder green like chopped broccoli or peas.
Batch Cooking: This casserole is perfect for batch cooking! Simply double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.
Customize the Cheese: Get creative with your cheese selection by using a blend of different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for an extra kick of flavor!
Add Some Heat: For those who love a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the spinach mixture for a fiery twist.
Go Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free alternative, such as brown rice pasta or chickpea pasta.
Experiment with Proteins: Don’t limit yourself to just chicken – this casserole is incredibly versatile! Try using leftover turkey, ham, or even cooked sausage for a delicious variation.

With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, hearty pasta, creamy spinach, and crispy bacon, this Chicken and Spinach Pasta Casserole is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters! 🍽✨