Family Favorite Casserole: Crazy Good Dinner (Print Version)
Discover this crazy good family favorite casserole, perfect for weeknights or gatherings. An easy, comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 35 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
02 -
12 oz egg noodles
→ Velvety Dream Sauce
03 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter
04 -
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
05 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
06 -
1 1/2 cups whole milk
07 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened
08 -
1 tsp garlic powder
09 -
1 tsp onion powder
10 -
1/2 tsp dried thyme
11 -
Salt and pepper to taste
→ Garden Goodness & Flavor Boosters
12 -
16 oz frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
13 -
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
14 -
2 stalks celery, finely diced
→ Golden Crown Topping
15 -
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
16 -
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
17 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside. This initial prep sets the stage for your delicious Family Favorite Crazy Good Casserole.
02 -
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced, and 2 stalks celery, finely diced. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Remove the sautéed vegetables from the pot and set aside.
03 -
In the same pot (no need to clean), melt any remaining butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth and 1 1/2 cups whole milk until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring, until the sauce thickens.
04 -
Reduce heat to low. Stir in 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, sautéed vegetables, 16 oz frozen mixed vegetables, and cooked egg noodles to the sauce. Stir gently to combine all ingredients for your Family Favorite Crazy Good Casserole.
05 -
Pour the entire mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a small bowl, combine 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this topping generously and evenly over the casserole.
06 -
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy. For the best Family Favorite Crazy Good Casserole, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set and prevent it from being too runny.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce along with the other seasonings.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
03 -
Feel free to customize the vegetables; fresh sautéed mushrooms or spinach would also be delicious additions.
04 -
This hearty casserole is fantastic on its own, but a simple side salad or some warm garlic bread makes it a complete meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Cutting board
07 -
Knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 674 kcal
Total Fat: 28 g
Total Carbohydrate: 48 g
Protein: 54 g