Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake Recipe

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic dish with this Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy goodness and savory satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. As someone who loves creating delicious, family-friendly meals, I can attest that this pasta bake has earned its place as a signature dish in my kitchen.

Inspired by the heartwarming casseroles of my grandmother’s kitchen, this Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake brings together tender chicken, flavorful ham, and vibrant broccoli in a luscious cream sauce. The dish not only fills your home with irresistible aromas but also fills your heart with memories of shared meals and laughter around the table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy meal, this pasta bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

With its make-ahead and freezer-friendly options, this Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake is a lifesaver for busy days. You can customize the recipe to suit your preferences by swapping ingredients or adding your unique twist. Serve it with a side salad and a glass of wine for an elegant touch, or keep it casual with some crusty bread and sparkling water. Get ready to savor every bite of this delightful pasta bake that promises to bring joy and satisfaction to your table.

Quick Benefits

• Versatile Dish: Easily customizable with different pasta shapes, vegetable choices, soup variations, and cheese options to suit personal preferences and dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Convenient for busy schedules or planned gatherings, as it can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated up to 24 hours, or frozen for up to 3 months without compromising the creamy texture.
• Hearty and Comforting: A satisfying meal that combines the richness of a homemade cream sauce with tender chicken, savory ham, and vibrant broccoli, making it a crowd-pleaser for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
• Inspired by Family Traditions: Infused with nostalgia and memories, this recipe pays homage to the tradition of combining multiple proteins in casseroles to create a special and satisfying dish.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake Recipe Recipe

• Rich and Comforting: The creamy sauce paired with tender chicken, savory ham, and vibrant broccoli creates a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly: Ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings, you can assemble this casserole in advance, refrigerate, or freeze it for up to three months without compromising the creamy texture.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences by swapping pasta shapes, vegetables, or soup flavors to create a dish that fits your taste.
• Nostalgic and Heartwarming: Reminiscent of classic family recipes, the combination of chicken and ham brings back memories of special holiday meals and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Impress guests at potlucks or family gatherings with this flavorful pasta bake, and pair it with a simple salad, garlic bread, and a glass of wine for a complete and delicious meal experience.

Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake Recipe

Base

• 2 cups broccoli, cut into small pieces
• 8 oz penne pasta, uncooked

Sauce

• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tbsp dijon mustard (coarse mustard with seeds)
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 2 cups sour cream
• 20 oz cream of mushroom soup

Mix-ins

• 2 cups chicken, cooked and shredded
• 2 cups ham, cooked and cut into small cubes
• 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded

Pro Tips for Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake Recipe

For an easy prep solution, assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. Additionally, consider adding an extra 5-10 minutes of covered baking time to compensate for the chill from refrigeration. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy weeknights or planned gatherings, saving you time in the kitchen.

Experiment with different pasta shapes and vegetables to tailor this recipe to your preferences. Try using fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni as substitutes for penne. Not a fan of broccoli? Swap it out for frozen peas, asparagus tips, or spinach. Feel free to customize the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery for varied flavors. Enhance the cheesiness by adding Gruyère or sharp cheddar alongside the Swiss cheese. The dish’s foundation remains constant, allowing you to create a unique and personalized pasta bake every time.

To keep the broccoli tender-crisp and prevent overcooking, add the florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 3 to 4 minutes. This ensures that the broccoli retains its vibrant color and texture in the final dish. If you decide to freeze the casserole, remember to defrost it completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking for optimal results. You can also explore different cheese options such as mozzarella or gouda to add a distinctive flavor profile to the creamy chicken ham pasta bake.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli

Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 3 to 4 minutes of cooking, add chopped broccoli florets to the boiling water. Drain pasta and broccoli in a colander.

Step 2: Prepare Casserole Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 3: Mix Sauce Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix melted butter with cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, dijon mustard, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble

Combine cooked chicken, ham, cooked pasta, and broccoli with the sauce. Stir until mixed, then gently incorporate the Swiss cheese. Transfer the creamy pasta mixture to the casserole dish.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10 minutes until the center is bubbly.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the casserole cool down to room temperature before transferring it to the container. When reheating, you can warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at a low temperature to maintain its creamy texture.

If you want to freeze the Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake, assemble the dish but refrain from baking it. Cover the casserole tightly first with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking according to the original instructions. Despite being frozen, the pasta bake retains its creamy consistency and flavors exceptionally well.

For those planning ahead, the Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake can be assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to take off the chill before placing it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes of covered baking time to ensure everything is heated through properly. This make-ahead method is a time-saving option for busy days or planned gatherings.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have penne pasta on hand, feel free to use other short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni to achieve a similar texture in the dish. Just remember to cook them al dente before baking to prevent them from becoming too soft in the casserole.

In place of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can create a homemade cream sauce using a roux of butter, flour, and milk with added seasonings to achieve a similar creamy consistency in the dish.

While Swiss cheese provides a mild and creamy flavor to the pasta bake, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different taste profile. Just adjust the quantity based on the desired level of cheesiness in the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider garnishing individual portions of this creamy chicken ham pasta bake with a sprinkle of crispy, crumbled bacon or a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra layer of flavor. This adds a touch of elegance and decadence to the dish, perfect for special occasions or dinner parties. Additionally, serving the pasta bake in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets can make for a charming and personalized presentation, elevating the dining experience and making each guest feel special.

To enhance the visual appeal of this comforting casserole, you can top the finished dish with a colorful medley of fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or basil. The vibrant green hues not only add a pop of freshness but also provide a subtle contrast to the creamy sauce and golden cheese, making the dish look even more appetizing. Serving the pasta bake in a rustic or vintage baking dish can also add a cozy and inviting touch to the table, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your family or guests to enjoy the meal.

FAQs for Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other short pastas like fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni. Just ensure you cook them al dente before baking.

Can I substitute cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom if preferred, or even make a homemade cream sauce.

Can this pasta bake be frozen before baking?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months before baking. Be sure to defrost completely before baking for the best results.

What other cheeses can I use instead of Swiss cheese?

Swiss cheese is recommended for its mild and creamy flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella or gouda for a different taste.

Conclusion

As you prepare to make this Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake for your loved ones, remember that the magic of this dish lies not just in its flavors but in the memories it helps create. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to bring smiles and satisfied stomachs to the table.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every creamy, comforting bite of this Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake. From the first forkful to the last, let the blend of flavors and the heartwarming nostalgia of a homemade meal fill you with joy and contentment. Enjoy the process of creating this dish, and most importantly, relish the moments shared with those you love around the dinner table. Bon appétit!