Description
This Delicious Chicken Nugget Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make meal combining crispy chicken nuggets, al dente bowtie pasta, and a rich tomato sauce seasoned with Italian herbs. Topped with generous amounts of mozzarella and parmesan cheese, this casserole bakes to bubbly perfection with a golden cheesy crust, perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together.
Ingredients
Chicken and Pasta
- 1 1/2 lbs Frozen Chicken Nuggets
- 16 oz. Bowtie Pasta (cooked to al dente)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 28 oz. Crushed Tomatoes (canned)
- 1 Tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 2 tsp Garlic Salt
Cheese
- 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a 9x13-inch baking pan thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well to remove excess water.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, frozen chicken nuggets, and half of the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheeses into the tomato mixture. Mix everything thoroughly so that the pasta and nuggets are well coated with sauce and cheese.
- Assemble in Pan: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared 9x13 baking pan, ensuring the ingredients are distributed in a flat layer.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mixture to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 50-60 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese topping turns golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve: Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the casserole warm and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors and textures.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly shredded mozzarella and freshly grated parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties.
- You can substitute bowtie pasta with other small pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
- If you prefer extra crispy chicken nuggets, bake them separately before mixing into the casserole.
- Adjust seasoning to taste if you want it spicier by adding crushed red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
