The Crazy Good Casserole lives up to its name, offering a delightful mix of tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy soup, cheese, and pasta. It’s a hearty dish that combines all the comforting elements of a perfect family meal.
The Story
This casserole is inspired by the classic comfort foods that are staples in many households. It’s designed for those evenings when you crave something satisfying and flavorful but also want the convenience of a one-dish meal.
Why You Should Make
If you’re in search of a meal that’s both easy to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this is the recipe for you. It’s great for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any time you need a comforting and filling dish.
How to Serve
Serve this casserole hot, right out of the oven. It’s a complete meal in itself but can also be paired with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips
- Cook the bacon until it’s crispy for the best texture in the casserole.
- Shred your own cheese for a creamier texture, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
- Don’t overcook the pasta since it will continue to cook in the oven.
Prepare Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 4-5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 strips of quality bacon – cooked and crumbled
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded Monterrey Jack cheese
- 1 box (16 ounces) dried spiral pasta
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chicken breasts over medium heat until they are no longer pink in the center. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once cooked, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, chicken, crumbled bacon, cream of chicken soup, and half of the cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes
- You can cook the bacon in the oven while preparing other ingredients to save time.
Variations
- Vegetable Lover’s Casserole: Add cooked broccoli or peas to the mix.
- Spicy Casserole: Include some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Keto Version
- Use a low-carb pasta substitute like zucchini noodles.
- Replace the cream of chicken soup with a keto-friendly creamy sauce.
Low-Carb Version
- Substitute the spiral pasta with a low-carb alternative like shirataki noodles.
- Opt for a low-carb cream of chicken soup or make your own with heavy cream and chicken stock.
Nutrition Information
Each serving approximately contains (serves 8):
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 35g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 870mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and preparation modifications.)
