Crazy Good Casserole: Creamy & Cheesy Family Dinner (Print Version)
This Crazy Good Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dream! My family's favorite, hearty comfort food with real ingredients and personal touches.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Comfort Food
# Ingredients:
→ Hearty Base
01 -
2 cups cooked chicken breasts, diced (about 1 lb raw)
02 -
8 oz wide egg noodles, cooked al dente
03 -
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
→ Creamy Cheesy Goodness
04 -
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
05 -
1 cup whole milk
06 -
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Flavor Builders
07 -
1 tbsp butter
08 -
1/2 medium onion, diced
09 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 -
1/2 tsp dried thyme
11 -
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
12 -
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get that pasta boiling! Cook your egg noodles according to package directions, but aim for al dente—they'll finish cooking in the oven. While that's happening, if your mixed veggies aren't already thawed, give them a quick rinse under warm water. This is where I always forget to salt the water for the pasta, oops! Don't be me.
02 -
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt a knob of butter over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and let it soften, about 3-5 minutes, until it's translucent and smells sweet. Then, add your minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don't let it burn, or it'll get bitter – I've made that mistake before and had to start over!
03 -
Now for the good stuff! Pour in your cream of chicken soup and milk. Whisk it all together until it's smooth and starts to bubble gently. Stir in your dried thyme, a good pinch of salt, and a generous crack of black pepper. This sauce is going to be the heart of our creamy casserole, so make sure it's seasoned to your liking. Taste it!
04 -
Once your pasta is drained, add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss in your cooked chicken pieces and the mixed vegetables. Give it a good stir, making sure everything is evenly coated in that luscious sauce. This is where the magic starts to happen, and you can already smell how comforting this dish is going to be!
05 -
Pour the entire mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Now, for the best part – sprinkle that glorious shredded cheddar cheese all over the top! Don't be shy; a good cheese crust is essential. I sometimes add a little extra parmesan on top for extra crispiness.
06 -
Pop that dish into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the Crazy Good Casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and beautifully golden brown. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. It helps the sauce set a little, and prevents you from burning your tongue (ask me how I know!).
# Notes:
01 -
Don't overmix the sauce, it gets gluey and loses its creamy dreaminess.
02 -
This casserole reheats best in the oven; microwaving can make the sauce separate a bit.
03 -
Chicken thighs work just as well as breasts, offering a richer flavor profile.
04 -
A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side of crusty bread really elevate this comfort dish.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
02 -
9x13 inch baking dish
03 -
whisk
04 -
cutting board
05 -
knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 480 kcal
Total Fat: 28g
Total Carbohydrate: 40g
Protein: 35g