For a comforting meal that serves six, you will need:
- 2 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded or diced
- 18 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make your casserole:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Step 2: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked chicken, cheese tortellini, chicken broth, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If using, add the frozen peas and carrots. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Step 3: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture. If desired, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese for additional flavor.
- Step 4: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 5: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving is approximately 400 calories, making this casserole a filling meal with moderate calorie content.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Baking Time: 35-40 minutes | Total Time: 45-50 minutes | Servings: 6
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Follow the package instructions for your specific tortellini.
2. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the Alfredo sauce is also gluten-free.
3. Can I add different proteins?
Yes, you can use shredded turkey or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
4. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
It typically lasts about 3-4 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before packaging it in a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
Dump-and-Bake Creamy Chicken Alfredo Tortellini Casserole is an easy and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a rich, creamy dish that the whole family will love. It’s filling, comforting, and can be easily customized to suit your tastes or to use up leftover ingredients you have on hand. Try it out tonight!
