Description
This Crock Pot Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for a busy weeknight. Tender shredded chicken, uncooked penne pasta, and rich Alfredo sauce combine in the slow cooker for a hands-off meal. Topped with plenty of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, it delivers a deliciously savory dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
Sauce Mixture
- 2 (15 oz) jars of Alfredo sauce (preferably Bertolli brand)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Pasta
- 16 oz uncooked penne pasta
Cheese
- 3 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, water, minced garlic, salt, and pepper thoroughly to create the creamy base for the casserole.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta until it is evenly coated with the Alfredo mixture, ensuring every piece is covered for even cooking.
- Prep Crock Pot: Spray the inside of a 6-quart crock pot with non-stick spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Layer First Half: Place half of the penne and Alfredo sauce mixture into the bottom of the crock pot in an even layer.
- Add Chicken: Spread half of the cooked shredded chicken evenly over the pasta layer.
- Add Cheese Layers: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/8 cup of parmesan cheese over the chicken layer.
- Layer Remaining Ingredients: Add the remaining penne and Alfredo mixture, followed by the remaining chicken, another cup of mozzarella, and the additional parmesan cheese.
- Cook: Cover with the crock pot lid and cook on low heat for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, allowing the pasta to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Add Final Cheese Layer: Remove the lid and sprinkle the last cup of mozzarella cheese over the top; allow the cheese to melt completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color and freshness, then serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded before adding to the crock pot.
- Spraying the crock pot prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Do not open the lid during cooking as it will increase cooking time.
- For a lower sodium version, choose low-sodium Alfredo sauce and reduce added salt.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
