If you are a fan of rich, comforting pasta dishes, you are in for a real treat with this Three Cheese Chicken Spinach & Artichoke Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe. This dish marries creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and hearty artichokes, all layered with not one, but three types of cheese for a truly luscious experience. It’s the perfect dinner to cozy up with, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds and making it a go-to recipe in your collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Three Cheese Chicken Spinach & Artichoke Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each item plays a starring role, from the creamy Alfredo sauce that sets the stage, to the combination of cheeses that make every bite irresistible. Let’s look at exactly what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.
- 1 (16-oz) package penne pasta: This pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- 2 (15-oz) jars Alfredo sauce: The creamy base that gives this bake its rich, indulgent flavor.
- 1 (8-oz) container sour cream: Adds a subtle tang and extra creaminess that balances the rich cheese.
- 1 (15-oz) container ricotta cheese: Gives the bake a dreamy texture and enhances the cheese flavor nicely.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: Infuses the dish with warmth and depth, essential for that classic Italian aroma.
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken: Provides hearty protein and makes the dish satisfying and well-rounded.
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten: Acts as a binder, ensuring the casserole holds together when baked.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that amplifies every cheesy note.
- 1 (10 to 12-oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained: Brings a boost of color, nutrients, and earthy flavor.
- 1 (14-oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped: Introduces a subtle tartness and tender bite that complements the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese: The crowning glory that melts into a golden, bubbly topping for ultimate indulgence.
How to Make Three Cheese Chicken Spinach & Artichoke Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This step sets the foundation to prevent any sticking and helps the bake develop a beautiful crust once it comes out of the oven.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and return the pasta to the pot. Properly cooked pasta is crucial because it should still maintain a slight bite and absorb the creamy sauce perfectly without becoming mushy.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Filling
To the pot with the pasta, add the Alfredo sauce, sour cream, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, chopped cooked chicken, lightly beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, thawed and drained spinach, and chopped artichoke hearts. Stir everything together until it is evenly combined. This mixture creates a luscious filling packed with flavor and the right amount of moisture to keep the bake creamy yet cohesive.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the top with the mozzarella cheese for that irresistible golden layer that will bubble and melt while baking. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly browned. This step brings all the flavors together while giving you the classic baked pasta texture.
How to Serve Three Cheese Chicken Spinach & Artichoke Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled over the top add a pop of color and a fresh, fragrant note that cuts through the richness. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish beautifully at serving time.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake is rich, so pairing it with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette creates a refreshing balance. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread would also be fantastic companions, providing crunch and complementary flavors that round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a charming touch if entertaining. You could also scoop it into baked bell peppers or hollowed-out bread bowls, making the meal feel even more special and fun around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pasta bake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes just as good reheated and allows you to enjoy this comforting meal on busy days with little effort.
Freezing
This dish also freezes well. To freeze, cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350ºF until heated through, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil while warming to keep the pasta from drying out, then uncover at the end to refresh the bubbly cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Just be sure to sauté the fresh spinach first to remove excess moisture before incorporating it, so your pasta bake doesn’t become watery.
Is it possible to substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, cooked turkey or even cooked sausage slices would work well and add their own unique flavors to this hearty bake.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap the penne pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety, and double-check that your Alfredo sauce and other ingredients do not contain gluten.
Why do we add eggs to the mixture?
The eggs act as a binder that holds the ingredients together during baking, helping the casserole keep its shape and yielding a smooth, creamy texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the chicken and consider adding more artichokes or other veggies like mushrooms or roasted zucchini for added flavor and substance.
Final Thoughts
This Three Cheese Chicken Spinach & Artichoke Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines comforting familiarity with a touch of gourmet flair. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish delivers on flavor and satisfaction every time. Give it a try and prepare to have a new favorite that’s easy to make, delightful to eat, and perfect for any occasion.
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Three Cheese Chicken Spinach & Artichoke Alfredo Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Three Cheese Chicken Spinach & Artichoke Alfredo Pasta combines tender penne pasta with a creamy blend of Alfredo sauce, sour cream, ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, enriched with chicken, spinach, and artichokes for a hearty, flavorful casserole that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 (16-oz) package penne pasta
Sauce and Cheese Mixture
- 2 (15-oz) jars Alfredo sauce
- 1 (8-oz) container sour cream
- 1 (15-oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 1 (10 to 12-oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (14-oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
Topping
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente, then drain and return it to the pot.
- Mix Ingredients: In the pot with pasta, stir together the Alfredo sauce, sour cream, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, chopped cooked chicken, beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, thawed and drained spinach, and chopped artichoke hearts until everything is well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the pasta and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
Notes
- Make sure to thoroughly drain the frozen spinach and artichokes to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
- Using cooked chicken saves time; rotisserie chicken or leftovers work well.
- You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti if desired.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like parsley before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
