Chicken Noodle Casserole
Dive into the comforting embrace of this Chicken Noodle Casserole, a dish that marries the heartiness of a home-cooked meal with the ease of preparation. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a warm, bubbly delight that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Whether you’re looking to soothe your soul after a long day or impress at a family gathering, this casserole offers a delicious solution that everyone will love.
Nestled under a golden crust of melted cheese and cracker crumbs, the tender chunks of chicken and soft macaroni swim in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s both satisfying and comforting. This Chicken Noodle Casserole is not just food; it’s a feeling—a warm, inviting hug served straight from the oven.
- Preparation Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
- 2 (10 3/4 ounce) cans cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup milk
- 3 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 2 1/2 cups cooked macaroni
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Ritz cracker crumbs
Directions:
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Ingredients:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the chopped onions in melted butter until they are tender and translucent. - Create the Sauce:
Stir in the cream of chicken soup and 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet with the onions. Gradually add the milk, and continue to cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. - Combine Chicken and Macaroni:
Add the chopped cooked chicken and cooked macaroni to the skillet. Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the cheesy sauce. - Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the mixture to a greased 2 ½ quart casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the Ritz cracker crumbs over the top to create a crispy topping. - Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbling around the edges. - Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole and return it to the oven. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.