Recipe: Cheesy Casserole For Easy Comfort Food Meals
50 mins
Cooking Time
Easy
Difficulty
7
Ingredients
Non Veg
Diet
If you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and straight from the oven, this chicken macaroni bake recipe is exactly the kind of comfort food that hits the spot. It combines soft macaroni, tender chicken, and a creamy cheese sauce that bakes into a golden, bubbly top. The baked top adds a light crispiness that balances the creamy texture underneath.
This chicken macaroni bake recipe is quick to put together. You just sauté onions in butter, mix in cream of chicken soup, milk, shredded chicken, and cheese until smooth, then toss it with cooked macaroni. Spread it in a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake until hot and bubbly with a golden crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works just as well for family dinners as it does for casual get-togethers.
If you’re looking for a simple macaroni recipe that feels like comfort food at its best, this one checks all the boxes. A simple salad or some roasted veggies go really well with this creamy bake. It’s easy to prepare, flexible with add-ins, and perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed family meals. It’s best served right after baking, while the cheese is still soft and gooey.
Set your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 1 ½ quart casserole dish with non-stick spray so nothing sticks later.
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Step 2: Cook the onion
Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and light golden.
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Step 3: Prepare the creamy sauce
Add the cream of chicken soup, shredded chicken, evaporated milk, and 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese into the pan with onions. Stir well and cook until the cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
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Step 4: Mix with macaroni
In a large bowl, add the cooked macaroni. Pour the creamy chicken sauce over it and mix gently until all the pasta is well coated.
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Step 5: Assemble
Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
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Step 6: Bake and rest
Place the prepared casserole dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbling with a golden top. Once done, take it out carefully and let it rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely.
Yes, you can use penne, fusilli, or shells if macaroni is not available. Just make sure the pasta is cooked al dente.
Make sure the sauce is creamy enough before baking, and do not overbake. Covering loosely with foil for part of the baking time also helps retain moisture.
Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk.
Yes, you can cook it on the stovetop in a deep pan. Cover and simmer on low heat until the cheese melts and everything is heated through evenly.