Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
12 servings
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Calories
15393 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake
Description
Chicken Cordon Bleu Pasta Bake mixes cooked bowtie pasta, shredded chicken, and diced ham in a smooth cheese sauce made by melting butter with garlic, stirring in flour to form a roux, then gradually adding half and half or heavy cream. Swiss cheese and Parmesan add depth and creaminess, alongside Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper for flavor. The assembled pasta mixture is placed in a casserole dish, topped with remaining Parmesan and seasoned breadcrumbs, then baked until the topping is browned and crispy. The result is a hearty bake combining creamy, cheesy sauce with tender pasta and meat pieces.
The sauce has a velvety, cheesy consistency and the bake develops a crisp breadcrumb topping that contrasts with the soft pasta and chicken. Melted Swiss cheese imparts a mild nuttiness, balanced by the sharpness of Dijon mustard and the savory saltiness of ham. Baking melds flavors and adds texture.
This pasta bake serves well as a warm main dish for lunch or dinner. It can be paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. It also reheats well for leftovers, maintaining the creamy texture of the sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta cooked according to package instructions
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons garlic minced
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 cups half and half OR heavy cream
- 4 lices swiss cheese (or grated)
- ⅔ cup Parmesan Cheese (shaved or grated), divided
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 3-4 ham chopped into 1 inch squares, thick slices
- 2 cups chicken rotisserie chicken would work fine, chopped or shredded, cooked
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned OR plain + 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning)
Instructions
- In a medium sauce pan melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and saute 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add flour and stir until it clumps up.
- Gradually whisk in half and half (or heavy cream) 1/2 cup at a time until all milk is incorporated and mixture is smooth.
- Add swiss cheese, 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dijon mustard. Stir until smooth.
- In a large bowl combine cooked pasta, chopped chicken, chopped ham, and the sauce. Mix until well combined. Transfer mixture to a casserole dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 400 for 15-20 minutes until breadcrumbs are browned. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 15393 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 15393kcal | 770% |
| Carbohydrates | 87g | 29% |
| Protein | 1340g | 2680% |
| Fat | 1036g | 1594% |
| Saturated Fat | 375g | 1875% |
| Cholesterol | 3845mg | 1282% |
| Sodium | 72334mg | 3014% |
| Potassium | 17758mg | 378% |
| Fiber | 4g | 16% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 749IU | 15% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 949mg | 95% |
| Iron | 56mg | 311% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.