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Crazy good casserole with golden melted cheese baked in a dish, served hot.

Crazy Good Casserole Recipe | Cheesy Comfort Food Dinner

Make crazy good casserole for the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken, pasta, creamy sauce, and melted cheese baked golden — perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Dish
Cuisine American-Inspired, Family-style
Servings 8
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot (for pasta)
  • Skillet (for chicken, if cooking fresh)
  • Mixing bowls
  • 9x13-inch casserole dish
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or egg noodles)
  • 2 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie or cooked breasts)
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)
  • Optional extras: ½ cup bacon bits, 1 cup peas or broccoli, ¼ cup sliced green onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain well.
  • Prepare chicken and sauce: Shred rotisserie chicken or cook chicken breasts, then chop. In a bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk until smo
  • Mix ingredients: Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large bowl. Stir in half the cheese.
  • Layer in casserole dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch dish. Spread mixture evenly, then top with remaining cheese. Add optional extras if desired.
  • Bake until golden: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
  • Serve: Scoop into bowls or serve family-style straight from the dish. Pair with garlic bread or salad.

Notes

  • Tip: Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture.
  • Make-ahead: Assemble unbaked casserole, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake fresh.
  • Variations: Try spicy with jalapeños, veggie-loaded with broccoli and spinach, or deluxe with bacon and extra cheese.
  • Serving idea: Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings—feeds a crowd easily.
Keyword chicken pasta bake, crazy good casserole, creamy comfort food, viral casserole recipe