Craving the kind of dinner that gathers everyone around the table in anticipation? Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake brings that magic to your kitchen! Imagine tender pasta tossed with savory chicken and smoky turkey, all wrapped in a luxuriously creamy, ultra-cheesy sauce, then baked to bubbly, golden perfection. This dish is the definition of comfort with a deeply satisfying twist, ideal for family nights or when you just want to spoil your taste buds. Trust me, the combo of flavors in Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake is the stuff of legend—get ready to bask in the rave reviews!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for this Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake keeps things simple, yet every component adds something unforgettable—creamy, tangy, smoky, and of course, supremely cheesy. Each ingredient is selected to harmonize perfectly for that crave-worthy result.
- Rotini or Penne Pasta (12 ounces): These shapes hold sauce beautifully and create the perfect bite every time.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Helps to soften the onion and infuse a touch of richness into the casserole.
- Small Onion, Diced (1): Adds sweetness and depth that anchors the savory flavors.
- Garlic, Minced (2 cloves): Brings a gentle warmth and irresistible aroma to the base.
- Cooked Chicken, Shredded (2 cups): Lean, juicy, and hearty—this is where the bulk of the protein comes from.
- Smoked Turkey, Diced (1 cup): A touch of smoke elevates every forkful and keeps you coming back for more.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5oz): Forms the luscious, creamy backbone of the sauce.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds delightful tang and creamy texture that makes the sauce sing.
- Chicken Broth (1/2 cup): Thins out the sauce to the ideal consistency and adds lovely savory notes.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a gentle kick to balance all that richness.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Intensifies the smokiness and brings incredible color to the casserole.
- Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Layers in extra flavor for the most truly savory results.
- Cheddar Cheese, Shredded (2 cups, divided): Melts into cheesy ribbons throughout and creates a golden, bubbly topping.
- Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded (1/2 cup): For those amazing gooey cheese pulls every casserole should have.
- Parmesan Cheese, Grated (1/4 cup): Adds salty, nutty depth that finishes off the cheesy trifecta.
- Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish): Lends a burst of fresh color and brightness to the final dish.
How to Make Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in your rotini or penne and cook just until al dente—you want the pasta to still have some bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain it well and set it aside, so it’s ready to absorb all the dreamy flavors coming up.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
While the pasta is draining, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and let it sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, just until soft and fragrant. Follow up with the garlic, giving it a quick 30-second stir, so it releases its aroma without burning. The whole kitchen will smell amazing already!
Step 3: Add Chicken and Smoked Turkey
Now, gently stir in the shredded chicken and diced smoked turkey. Let them warm through and soak up all those savory flavors hanging out in the pan, then remove the skillet from the heat. This step fills the dish with heartiness and those lovely smoky notes that make Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake so irresistible.
Step 4: Mix Up the Creamy Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar cheese. This golden blend is the soul of the casserole—it’s so creamy and flavorful, you’ll want to dip a spoon in before it even hits the oven!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta and the savory chicken-turkey-onion mixture to the bowl, and give everything a gentle but thorough stir. Every noodle should get coated with that rich, cheesy sauce. You’re going to see (and smell) why Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake gets its name!
Step 6: Assemble and Top
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Then comes the best part: shower the top with the remaining half cup of cheddar, all the mozzarella, and the Parmesan. This trio creates a bubbling, melty blanket that will crown your bake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the casserole hot and bubbly, with a golden, ever-so-slightly crisp cheese crust. Once it’s ready, let the casserole rest on the counter for five minutes—if you can wait that long—before serving. Sprinkle with parsley for a burst of color if you like!
How to Serve Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake
Garnishes
When it comes to topping off this comfort classic, fresh chopped parsley is delightful for a pop of color and freshness. Another fun idea is to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for gentle heat, or some extra grated Parmesan for even more umami punch. Let everyone garnish their own portion, which adds a personal touch and makes the casserole even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This hearty bake pairs beautifully with simple sides. A crisp green salad or lightly steamed broccoli makes for the perfect cool, refreshing contrast to the cheesy richness. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also a favorite around here—great for scooping up every last bit of sauce from your plate!
Creative Ways to Present
For potlocks or parties, cut the casserole into smaller squares and serve them in cupcake wrappers for easy pick-up portions. Hosting a cozy dinner? Scoop generous helpings into individual ramekins and broil a little extra cheese on top for a mini-gourmet experience. However you serve it, Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake always steals the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole is a treat you’ll look forward to! Let it cool, then cover tightly with foil or transfer slices to airtight containers. It keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days—just long enough to stretch those cozy dinner vibes through a busy week.
Freezing
Casseroles are made for the freezer! Wrap the unbaked or baked dish well with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. If you’ve already baked it, portion it out first for easy reheating. Don’t forget to label with the date so you remember when it’s time to enjoy your stored Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake.
Reheating
Warm individual servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or reheat larger portions in a 350°F oven covered with foil until hot (about 20 minutes). If the casserole seems a little dry, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating to bring back that irresistible creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use all chicken or all turkey in Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake?
Absolutely! This casserole welcomes swaps and adjustments. Feel free to use just chicken, just turkey, or even a plant-based mock if that’s your style—the mix of meat simply adds variety and flavor, but it’s always delicious with what you have on hand.
What vegetables can I add?
Steamed broccoli, peas, or even baby spinach stirred in with the pasta and meat mixture add color, nutrients, and extra texture. If you love a bit of crunch, toss in some diced bell peppers or even frozen corn before baking.
Is there a way to lighten up this casserole?
You sure can! Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt, use low-fat cheese, and opt for a reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup. You will still get all the comforting flavors of Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake, just a slimmed-down version.
Can I make it ahead and bake later?
Yes, this recipe is tailor-made for busy schedules. Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven—add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the best way to shred chicken quickly?
Rotisserie chicken is the ultimate shortcut—just pull the meat apart with your hands or two forks. For larger batches, you can even toss cooked chicken breasts in a mixer with a paddle attachment for perfectly shredded results in seconds!
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t fallen in love with Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake yet, just wait until it’s bubbling and golden on your table. It’s the kind of dish that makes any meal feel special and brings everyone back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Give it a try—you’ll see just how unforgettable this casserole can be!
Print
Crazy Good Casserole: Cheesy Chicken and Smoked Turkey Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crazy Good Casserole combines tender rotini pasta with shredded chicken, diced smoked turkey, and a creamy, cheesy sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 1 cup smoked turkey (diced)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil, then add chicken, turkey, and seasonings. Combine with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and cheddar cheese.
- Combine and Bake: Mix cooked pasta with the sauce, pour into a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken and leftover turkey for a quick shortcut.
- You can make this casserole a day ahead—just cover and refrigerate before baking.
- Add a handful of steamed broccoli or peas for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
