You can jazz up your classic cheesy chicken noodle casserole with cream of mushroom soup by adding chopped veggies, different cheeses, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Introduction
Craving a warm hug in a dish? Look no further than the cheesy chicken noodle casserole! This timeless comfort food has been a family favorite for generations. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity.
Tender chicken, fluffy noodles, and a creamy sauce made with cream of mushroom soup all come together in a casserole dish for an easy and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re short on time or whipping up a cozy weekend dinner, this cheesy chicken noodle casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe.
Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole with Cream Of Mushroom Soup? – Step By Step Process
Cheesy chicken noodle casserole with cream of mushroom soup is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- Optional: Topping (crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, butter)
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 2
Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, thyme, and pepper.
If using, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables.
Step 4
Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and stir to combine.
Step 5
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 6
Optional Topping: Melt some butter and mix with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the topping over the casserole.
Step 7
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted on top.
Tips
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breast, or even canned chicken for this recipe.
- For a richer flavor, use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom soup, or even a combination of both.
- Want to add some veggies? Try chopped carrots, celery, or peas along with the mixed vegetables.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This is just a basic recipe, feel free to get creative and add your own favorite ingredients!
How to Spice up your casserole?
The beauty of the cheesy chicken noodle casserole is its versatility. Want to put your own spin on this classic? Here are some easy ways to customize it:
Soup Swap
While cream of mushroom soup adds a delicious earthy flavor, feel free to use cream of chicken soup for a more traditional taste. You can even try a combination of both for a richer flavor profile.
Veggie Power
Love your greens? Add chopped broccoli, peas, corn, or a bag of frozen mixed vegetables to the casserole for a healthy and colorful twist.
Noodle Innovation
Don’t have egg noodles on hand? No problem! Experiment with different types of noodles like rotini, penne, or even whole wheat noodles for a change in texture.
Cheese Extravaganza
Love cheese? Go beyond the cheddar and mozzarella! Try adding Gruyere for a nutty flavor, Parmesan for a sharper bite, or Monterey Jack for a touch of sweetness.
Spice it Up
Craving a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a sprinkle of chili powder to the sauce for a touch of heat.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to get creative and add your own favorite ingredients to make this casserole truly your own!
FAQs
How many carbs are in chicken noodle casserole?
The exact carb content varies, but a typical chicken noodle casserole can have around 30-40 grams of carbs per serving due to the noodles and cream of mushroom soup.
Can I freeze chicken noodle casserole?
Yes, Chicken noodle casserole freezes well thanks to the cooked chicken and creamy sauce. Just assemble, cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long to reheat chicken casserole in the oven in the UK?
Reheating time depends on portion size and dish material. Aim for 180°C (350°F) for 20-30 minutes, checking for piping hot in the center. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Are all casseroles baked?
No, not all casseroles are baked. While many, like chicken noodle casserole, are baked in the oven, some casserole dishes are simmered on the stovetop.
What temperature is a casserole done?
For safe consumption, casseroles need to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) measured with a food thermometer.
How much sugar is in chicken noodles?
The sugar content in chicken noodle soup varies depending on the brand and recipe, but it can range from 0-2 grams per serving.
Conclusion: The Perfect Weeknight Meal
The cheesy chicken noodle casserole is a winner for a reason. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, offering a warm and comforting hug in a dish.
Packed with tender chicken, fluffy noodles, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Plus, the beauty lies in its endless customization options! From swapping soups to adding your favorite vegetables and cheeses, you can tailor this recipe to your own preferences.
So ditch the takeout menus and whip up this casserole for a satisfying and delicious meal. We encourage you to try the recipe and share your creative variations in the comments below!
Let’s inspire each other with our cheesy chicken noodle casserole adventures.