Crazy Good Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
Introduction
Crazy Good Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Packed with shredded chicken, cheesy noodles, and savory bacon, it’s simple to make yet incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 2 cups egg noodles, uncooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar size.
- Step 2: Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 4: Add the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the bacon to the sauce mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Step 5: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon evenly over the top.
- Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
- Swap egg noodles for rotini or penne if you prefer a different pasta shape.
- For a creamier texture, add an extra ¼ cup of sour cream or milk to the sauce mixture.
- Mix in vegetables like peas or chopped broccoli for added color and nutrition.
- Try using smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator. Bake it as directed when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.
Can I freeze Crazy Good Casserole?
This casserole freezes well. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, then bake as usual.
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Crazy Good Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Crazy Good Casserole is a comforting and delicious baked dish featuring shredded chicken, tender egg noodles, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a hearty family meal, this casserole combines easy-to-find ingredients with simple preparation for a satisfying and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 2 cups egg noodles, uncooked
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cook Noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until just al dente, firm to the bite, since they will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients. Add the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon to the sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Assemble Casserole. Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top for a deliciously cheesy and crispy finish.
- Bake Covered. Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Finish Baking Uncovered. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Rest and Garnish. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired to add a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lower fat option, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Add vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Ensure noodles are not overcooked before baking to avoid a mushy texture.
- The casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken casserole, cheesy casserole, bacon casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, baked casserole
