Chicken Cordon Bleu Tetrazzini is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that combines the flavors of the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu with creamy pasta. This dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner and is sure to become a favorite in your household. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making Chicken Cordon Bleu Tetrazzini, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups ham, chopped
- 1 pound spaghetti, cooked according to package directions
- 3/4 cup Swiss cheese, grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan, grated
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Chop the Ingredients:
- Chop the cooked chicken and ham into bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop the yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Roux:
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir well to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add the Liquids:
- Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream and continue to stir until the sauce is smooth and begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the chopped cooked chicken and ham to the sauce, stirring to combine.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and grated Swiss cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the pasta mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- Make the Breadcrumb Topping:
- In a small bowl, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of unsalted butter. Add the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the melted butter.
- Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Cordon Bleu Tetrazzini hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Cheese: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
- Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
Variations:
- Vegetable Addition:
- Add 1 cup of frozen peas or broccoli florets to the pasta mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Tetrazzini:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Version:
- Use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the dish gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. What can I serve with Chicken Cordon Bleu Tetrazzini?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
5. Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as Gruyere, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Tetrazzini is a creamy and comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, savory ham, and rich cheese sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is easy to follow and full of delicious flavors. Give this Chicken Cordon Bleu Tetrazzini recipe a try and enjoy a satisfying and comforting meal. Happy cooking!
