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INSTANT POT DINNER RECIPES

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce come together in this irresistible one-dish meal.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a creamy pasta bake loaded with tender chicken and savory Parmesan cheese. This recipe takes that classic combination to the next level with the addition of garlic-infused cream sauce, making it a meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re craving comfort food for a cozy night in or need a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound chicken breast, diced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked and drained
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Season the Chicken: Season the diced chicken breast with salt and pepper.
  2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
  3. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian herbs. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Bake

  1. Mix Pasta and Sauce: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked and drained penne pasta with the cooked chicken and garlic. Pour the creamy Parmesan sauce over the pasta mixture and gently stir to coat everything evenly.
  2. Add Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
  3. Sprinkle with Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle evenly over the mozzarella cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Bake the pasta bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  2. Garnish and Serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed spinach, diced bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms to the pasta bake for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Protein Swap: Substitute diced cooked ham or cooked Italian sausage for the chicken for a different flavor profile.
  • Creamy Options: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Version:

  • Low-Carb Pasta Substitute: Use spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles instead of penne pasta to reduce the carb count.
  • Thickening Agent: Use xanthan gum or a low-carb thickener to thicken the sauce instead of flour.
  • Keto Breadcrumbs: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with grated Parmesan cheese instead of breadcrumbs for the topping.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Moderate Carbs: Reduce the amount of penne pasta or use a combination of cauliflower rice and shirataki noodles to lower the carb content.
  • Cream Substitute: Use a combination of chicken broth and heavy cream or coconut cream for a lower-carb creamy sauce.
  • Cheese Options: Experiment with different low-carb cheese options such as Gouda, Swiss, or provolone for added flavor.

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake is a true crowd-pleaser, combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce for a meal that’s both comforting and delicious. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

A: Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

Q: Can I prepare the pasta bake ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until you’re ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking, and adjust the baking time as needed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?

A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried Italian herbs?

A: Yes, you can use fresh herbs in place of dried. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust the amount to taste.

Q: Can I make this pasta bake gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can use gluten-free penne pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well if needed.

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Cheesy Taco Pasta Introduction Cheesy Taco Pasta combines the beloved flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta. This easy and quick dish is perfect for busy weeknights, bringing together ground beef or turkey, taco seasoning, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that will delight your taste buds. Garnished with fresh herbs, this dish offers a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Ingredients 1 lb ground beef or turkey 1 packet taco seasoning 8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rotini, or macaroni) 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup salsa 1 cup beef or chicken broth 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream Salt and pepper to taste Chopped cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional) Instructions Step 1: Cook the Pasta Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Add Taco Seasoning: Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning, following the instructions on the packet (typically adding a small amount of water). Let it simmer for a few minutes until well combined and fragrant. Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Combine Ingredients: Lower the heat to medium and add the salsa, beef or chicken broth, and milk or heavy cream to the skillet with the meat. Stir to combine. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it slightly thickens. Step 4: Mix in the Pasta and Cheese Add Pasta: Stir the cooked pasta into the skillet, ensuring it is well coated with the sauce. Add Cheeses: Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the pasta is evenly coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Step 5: Serve Garnish: Transfer the Cheesy Taco Pasta to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot. This dish pairs well with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables. Tips for Success Pasta Choices: Any short pasta works well for this recipe. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand. Cheese: For an extra cheesy flavor, you can increase the amount of cheddar or mozzarella. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of spice. Salsa: Use your favorite salsa. If you prefer a milder dish, choose a mild salsa. For more heat, go with a spicy variety. Creaminess: Using heavy cream will result in a richer, creamier sauce, while whole milk will make it lighter. Ground Meat: Ground beef offers a classic taco flavor, but ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option. Variations Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with a meatless alternative or additional vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and black beans. Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick. Toppings: Top with diced tomatoes, avocado slices, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. One-Pot Meal: To make this a one-pot meal, cook the pasta directly in the skillet with the sauce, adding extra broth or water as needed until the pasta is cooked through. Conclusion Cheesy Taco Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the best of tacos and pasta. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any night of the week, offering a satisfying and comforting meal that the whole family will love. With its rich, creamy sauce and the bold taste of taco seasoning, it’s a guaranteed hit. Enjoy the delicious taste of Cheesy Taco Pasta, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations to make it your own! Health meal, low carbs meals, keto meal

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