Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Pasta Bake – Comfort Food at Its Best

When it comes to hearty, family-friendly meals, nothing beats a bubbling hot Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Pasta Bakestraight out of the oven. This dish combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and pasta smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, all baked until golden and irresistible. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms both the belly and the soul, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or weekend gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta bake is:

Cheesy and indulgent – Layers of gooey melted cheese make every bite satisfying.
Family-friendly – A dish that both kids and adults love.
Great for leftovers – Tastes even better reheated the next day.
Customizable – Swap pasta shapes, use different cheeses, or add veggies to suit your taste.

It’s the perfect recipe when you want something filling, flavorful, and easy to throw together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the pasta – Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the sauce – In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer. Stir in Italian seasoning and half of the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine ingredients – Add cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon into the skillet with the sauce. Mix until everything is well coated.
Assemble the bake – Transfer mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
Bake – Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve – Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Success

Use freshly grated cheese – It melts better and creates a creamier sauce.
Don’t overcook pasta – It will continue cooking in the oven.
Make ahead – Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Add veggies – Broccoli, spinach, or peas make a great addition.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Pasta Bake with garlic bread and a crisp side salad for a complete meal. It’s also perfect for meal prep since leftovers reheat beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this Cheesy Chicken and Bacon Pasta Bake is a true comfort-food classic. With its simple ingredients and satisfying flavors, it’s a dish your whole family will request again and again. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.