Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole
A comforting casserole with layers of tender pasta, juicy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheeses, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta Cook according to package instructions until al dente
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use leftover chicken if available
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz) A decent quality marinara sauce is recommended
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Provides a gooey texture
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated For a flavorful crust
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning Add more or less according to taste
- to taste Salt and pepper Don't forget to season adequately
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients. Pre-cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Shred cooked chicken and set aside.
Mixing the Base
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and marinara sauce. Mix in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until everything is well coated.
Assembling the Casserole
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Adding Cheeses
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously on top.
Baking
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake casserole for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown.
Serving
- Allow casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Avoid overcooking the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven. You can make substitutions for dietary requirements, such as gluten-free pasta or vegan cheese.