Description
This Crazy Good Casserole features a comforting blend of tender chicken, smoky turkey, creamy soup, and melted Monterey Jack cheese baked to golden perfection over spiral pasta. This hearty pasta bake is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or gatherings, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 4-5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
- 6 strips smoked turkey, cooked and crumbled
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces each)
Pasta & Seasonings
- 1 box (16 ounces) dried spiral pasta
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the smoked turkey: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the smoked turkey strips until they are crispy. Once cooked, crumble the turkey strips into small pieces and set aside, keeping the drippings in the skillet for cooking the chicken.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Using the reserved turkey drippings, cook the chicken pieces in the skillet over medium heat. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spiral pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
- Combine ingredients: In the pot with the drained pasta, mix together the cooked chicken, the two cans of cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese until everything is evenly combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumbled smoked turkey evenly over the top, then cover with the remaining 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. Remove from oven and serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked turkey strips with smoked turkey sausage or bacon for different smoky flavors.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream of chicken soup and lower-fat cheese options.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Add vegetables like peas or broccoli for added nutrients and color.
