Introduction
This creamy rotini pasta bake is a delightful dish that combines the goodness of pasta, fresh broccoli, and tender rotisserie chicken, all enveloped in a rich and cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this comforting bake brings together simple ingredients for a satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the details of what you’ll need to create this delicious dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 ounces rotini pasta (about 3½ cups dried)
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups half and half
6 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, diced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain the pasta and broccoli, and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden.
Step 5: Add Liquids
Gradually whisk in the half and half, ensuring no lumps remain. Add the cream cheese cubes and continue to whisk until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Season the Sauce
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, diced rotisserie chicken, and the prepared sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Step 8: Assemble the Dish
Transfer half of the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
Step 9: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 10: Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Ingredient Quality
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to substitute mozzarella with another cheese such as cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Tips
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Cooking pasta in boiling water until al dente ensures that it retains a firm texture. Adding broccoli for the last two minutes allows it to cook perfectly alongside the pasta.
Sautéing Garlic
Sauté garlic in butter over medium heat until fragrant to infuse the dish with a rich flavor. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Making a Roux
Whisk flour into melted butter and cook until golden to create a roux. This thickens your sauce and adds depth to the flavor profile.
Creating a Cream Sauce
Gradually whisk in half and half after making the roux, ensuring a smooth sauce without lumps. Adding cream cheese melts into the sauce for extra creaminess.
Mixing Ingredients
Combine cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and sauce thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors and textures in your dish.
Baking
Bake the layered mixture in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a deliciously golden crust.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, other types of pasta can be used, but cooking times may vary.
Is there a substitute for half and half?
You can substitute half and half with a mixture of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream.
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli; just ensure it’s thawed and drained before mixing it in.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or plant-based protein sources for a vegetarian option.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as a lighter alternative to cream cheese.
Conclusion
This creamy rotini pasta bake with broccoli and rotisserie chicken is a delightful, comforting dish that combines rich flavors and textures. The cheesy topping and the hearty ingredients make it a perfect meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it promises satisfaction in every bite.
Variations with Vegetables
You can easily customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
Protein Options
Swap the rotisserie chicken for cooked ground turkey, sausage, or even tofu to create a vegetarian version of this dish.
Different Cheeses
Experiment with different cheese combinations such as cheddar, gouda, or feta for a unique taste.
Herbs and Spices
Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley to enhance the flavor profile, or incorporate spices like red pepper flakes for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pasta bake with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Storage and Reheating
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave for a quick meal on the go.
Freezing Tips
For meal prep, freeze portions of the assembled pasta bake before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time when cooking from frozen.
