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Crazy Good Casserole

Crazy Good Casserole

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If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to please everyone at the table, Crazy Good Casserole is the answer! Packed with savory ingredients like tender pasta, juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese, all baked to golden perfection, this casserole truly earns its name. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping a comforting family dinner, this one-pan wonder will leave everyone asking for seconds and now let’s cooking our Crazy Good Casserole.

Ingredients

Casserole:

  • 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni work great)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

Topping:

  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2: Make the Creamy Base

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.

3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, bacon, and peas (if using) to the creamy mixture. Toss to coat everything evenly.
  2. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

4: Add the Topping

  1. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and the remaining cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
  2. Garnish with parsley, if desired, for a pop of color.

5: Bake to Perfection

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
  2. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

  • Shortcut chicken: Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken saves time and adds a rich, smoky flavor.
  • Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Customize the veggies: Swap the peas for broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients and variety.
  • Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Freshly shredded cheese ensures a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Double the recipe: This casserole freezes well, so make an extra batch for easy future meals.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:

  • Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

  • To freeze, assemble the casserole (without the breadcrumb topping) in a freezer-safe dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Reheating:

  • To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes for a crispier topping.

Variations

  1. Vegetarian Version:
    Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots.
  2. Mexican Twist:
    Swap the cream of chicken soup for a can of enchilada sauce and add black beans, corn, and diced green chilies. Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese.
  3. Buffalo Ranch Casserole:
    Mix ranch dressing and buffalo sauce into the creamy base, and use blue cheese crumbles for an extra tangy kick.
  4. Low-Carb Option:
    Replace the pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly version.
  5. Cheesy Explosion:
    Incorporate a mix of cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 750mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, farfalle, or even shells work perfectly in this recipe. Choose your favorite!

2. Can I make Crazy Good Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

3. Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes! You can use cream of mushroom soup or make your own béchamel sauce with butter, flour, and milk.

4. How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
Ensure your pasta is not overcooked and add a little extra cream or cheese to keep it moist. Cover with foil during the first half of baking to retain moisture.

5. Can I add more protein?
Of course! Try adding cooked sausage, ground beef, or shrimp to make this casserole even heartier.

 

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