Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake

 

Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal

Indulge in the cheesy goodness of Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake, a classic dish that’s sure to satisfy. This comforting casserole features layers of tender pasta, flavorful sauce, and a creamy spinach mixture, topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, Chicken Spinach Pasta Bake is incredibly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time. It’s the ideal comfort food for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

• Author: Derek Birch
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish

Ingredients

UNITS SCALE

• 1 pound rigatoni pasta (or any similar shape) cooked according to the package directions
• 3 cups rotisserie chicken cooked and shredded
• 4 oz fresh spinach
• 1 stick (8 Tbsp) butter
• 1/2 cup flour
• 5 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 cloves garlic, grated or minced finely
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 4 oz shredded cheese of choice – we used fontina but you can use mozzarella, gouda or your favorite
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 375F.  Grease an 13×9 baking dish.
• Cook the pasta until just under al dente (it will continue to cook in the oven).  Drain and set aside.
• In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt your butter.  Once melted, add the garlic and mix well.  Then add your flour and whisk until combined and thick.  Add the milk to the butter/flour mixture and stir until the sauce is thick and creamy.  Add salt, pepper, paprika, oregano and nutmeg.  Mix until incorporated.
• In a large mixing bowl add in your pasta, chicken, spinach and mix.  Then add your bechamel sauce over the mixture and stir until it is all creamy and coated.
• Pour mixture into your 13×9 pan and evenly distribute.  Top with cheese.  Bake for 15-20 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is melted.  If the top isn’t golden brown, switch to broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Notes

• Add in any other semi-cooked vegetables to this that you like or have as a side dish.  We love zucchini & will add it!