Crazy Good Casserole

Are you in search of a cozy dish that can please a crowd? The Crazy Good Casserole is just the ticket! Combining flavorful shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese, this dish is a family favorite that works wonders for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. As someone who has whipped this up too many times to count, I can assure you this recipe is a keeper. It’s not just quick and simple; it’s downright comforting and delicious.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This casserole isn’t just another recipe; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that can easily become a staple in your home. The blend of chicken, egg noodles, and creamy sauce ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can be prepped in under an hour — perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time but still want something that feels special.

Not convinced yet? Here’s what one satisfied home cook had to say:

“This casserole is a lifesaver! It’s so easy to make, and my kids can’t get enough of it. It’s quickly become our go-to meal!” – Jessica T.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making this Crazy Good Casserole is as straightforward as it gets. You’ll start by cooking the egg noodles, then create a creamy sauce that brings it all together. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: just mix, pour, and bake! Here’s a brief overview:

1. Prepare the noodles.
2. Whisk the creamy sauce components together.
3. Combine everything — it’s that easy!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

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)

Substitutions: You can opt for low-fat sour cream or a gluten-free noodle option to cater to dietary preferences.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the noodles: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles until just al dente (a little firm, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven). Drain and set aside.

3. Make the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth.

4. Assemble the casserole: Stir in the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon into the sauce mixture. Mix well so that everything is evenly coated.

5. Transfer to dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon evenly over the top.

6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired.

What to Serve It With

This Crazy Good Casserole can hold its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your meal, consider pairing it with a light salad or some crusty garlic bread. A side of steamed vegetables can add color and nutrition to your plate as well.

Serving Suggestions:

• Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up that cheesy goodness.
• Steamed Broccoli: Adds a flavorful crunch to balance the creaminess.

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Crazy Good Casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.

Reheating Tips:

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• If microwaving, cover the dish to retain moisture, heating in short increments.

Expert Advice

Here are a few pro-tips to help you nail this casserole:

• Cook noodles just shy of fully cooked: They will absorb moisture and cook further while baking.
• Season well: Don’t be shy with the seasonings; adjusting them to your liking can make a big difference.
• Add a crispy topping: Consider combining breadcrumbs with a bit of melted butter for an extra crunchy finish.

Creative Twists

While the classic version is a hit, you can always customize this casserole! Here are some ideas:

• Italian Style: Add some Italian herbs and diced tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
• Veggie-Loaded: Mix in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for that extra nutritious boost.
• Southwestern Flair: Blend in some black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a zesty kick.

FAQ

How long does it take to make this casserole?

The total prep and cooking time is about 40-50 minutes, making it a quick option for your busy evenings.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled from the fridge.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dietary alternative, you can use a homemade white sauce or even a can of cream of mushroom soup.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely! With its cheesy goodness and tender chicken, kids usually love this dish, making it a perfect family meal.

Building a recipe like this Crazy Good Casserole isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about creating memories and enjoying delicious meals together. Happy cooking!

Crazy Good Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A comforting casserole combining shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles until just al dente, drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Stir in the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon evenly over the top.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: casserole, chicken, comfort food, easy dinner, family meals