Today we’re making a delicious and comforting Creamy Chicken and Spinach Pasta Casserole. This dish is loaded with tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and creamy, cheesy goodness, all baked together to perfection. With a delicious béchamel sauce, melted Swiss cheese, and the earthy flavor of spinach, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive right in!
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Pasta, Casserole
Ingredients
For the pasta:
- 16 ounces (500g) pasta
- Salt (for boiling)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 16 fluid ounces (450 ml) milk
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 10 ounces (280g) Swiss cheese, grated
- 1 stick (120g) butter
For the filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 6 ounces (180g) fresh spinach, chopped
- 6-8 mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 10-12 cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 stick (60g) butter
For topping:
- 4 ounces (120g) Parmesan cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
-
Boil the Pasta
Start by placing a large saucepan on the stove and filling it with enough water to cook the pasta. Turn on the heat and bring the water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add a pinch of salt to the water and stir to dissolve. Carefully add 16 ounces (500g) of pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the pasta for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. -
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt 1 stick (120g) of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add 2 tablespoons of flour and stir continuously with a whisk to combine. This will create a roux. Slowly pour in 16 fluid ounces (450ml) of milk, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Add 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to season. Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat. -
Add the Cheese
Grate 10 ounces (280g) of Swiss cheese and add it directly into the béchamel sauce. Stir the cheese in until it melts completely, making the sauce extra creamy and delicious. Set the sauce aside. -
Prepare the Filling
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden and soft, about 5 minutes. Grate 2 cloves of garlic and add them to the pan, cooking for an additional minute. Add 6 ounces (180g) of chopped fresh spinach to the pan and sauté until it wilts, about 2 minutes. Then, add 6-8 chopped mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften. -
Cook the Chicken
Cube 2 chicken breasts and add them to the pan with the vegetables. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of oregano. Stir everything together and cook the chicken for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally. Add 10-12 quartered cherry tomatoes and let everything cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. -
Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Press it down gently with the back of a spoon to create an even layer. -
Layer the Filling
Once the chicken and vegetable mixture is ready, spread it evenly over the first pasta layer. Make sure it’s well-distributed to ensure every bite has a bit of everything—chicken, veggies, and cheese. -
Top with the Remaining Pasta
Add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the chicken and vegetable filling, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely. Press it down gently to secure the layers. -
Add Parmesan
Grate 4 ounces (120g) of Parmesan cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole. This will form a golden, cheesy crust once baked. -
Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should melt beautifully and create a crispy, delicious crust on top. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, cut yourself a generous portion and place it on a plate. The layers of pasta, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and vegetables come together in a perfect bite.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: 1 piece
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Vitamin A: 25%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 20%
- Iron: 15%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Casseroles are beloved all over the world for their convenience and comforting nature. This dish is inspired by classic baked pasta casseroles, commonly enjoyed in American and European homes, often incorporating cheese, vegetables, and a protein like chicken or beef. The creamy sauce and melted cheese on top elevate this casserole into a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or meal prepping for the week.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is a perfect comfort food, combining pasta, chicken, and a creamy cheese sauce that everyone will love.
- Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced home cooks.
- Family-Friendly: This casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a great option for family dinners.
Health Benefits
- Packed with Protein: The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
- Loaded with Vegetables: Spinach and mushrooms add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish, supporting overall health and digestion.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: The fresh herbs, peppers, and onions offer a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants that promote overall health.
- Low in Carbs: If you’re following a low-carb diet, this dish offers a lower carb option than traditional meat-and-potato meals.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Fresh Salad: Pair these rolls with a light, leafy salad to balance out the richness of the rolls.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted or grilled vegetables to make the meal even heartier.
- Pair with a Glass of Wine: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with the creamy, savory flavors of the rolls.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts and cooks down beautifully in this dish, adding both flavor and color.
- Ensure the Pasta is Al Dente: Be sure to cook the pasta just to al dente, as it will soften further in the casserole.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure it browns evenly and retains its juices.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tofu to make this casserole vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
- Add More Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli to the filling for more variety and nutrients.
- Spicy Option: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sauce or filling for a bit of heat.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Rolls are a perfect combination of comforting flavors and textures, making them a delightful meal for any occasion. With their savory filling, golden crust, and tangy yogurt dipping sauce, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Whether served for a weeknight dinner, a party, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
10 Comprehensive FAQs
-
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes before serving. -
Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the rolls before baking. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake them from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try using mozzarella, cheddar, or any other cheese you prefer. -
How can I make the rolls spicier?
Add some chopped chili peppers to the filling for extra heat. -
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots for added flavor and nutrients. -
How long do the rolls last in the fridge?
The rolls will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. -
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store the leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. -
Can I use different herbs?
Yes, you can experiment with basil, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile. -
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, just substitute the chicken with your choice of vegetables like mushrooms or tofu. Enjoy