Short Description
This Cowboy Butter Cheesy Chicken & Sausage Alfredo Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the savory goodness of chicken, smoked sausage, and a blend of delicious spices. Topped with a golden, bubbly cheese crust, this bake is comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 3 tablespoons cowboy butter (garlic, parsley, paprika, lemon zest, and butter blend)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cowboy butter over medium heat. Add chicken, season with Cajun seasoning, and cook until golden. Remove from skillet.
Step 3: Add sausage and onion to the same skillet; cook until browned. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in Parmesan until melted into a creamy Alfredo sauce.
Step 5: Return chicken to skillet, add pasta, and toss everything together. Season with smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Step 6: Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, savory chicken and sausage, and that irresistible cheese crust makes it a comfort food masterpiece. It’s easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The Cowboy Butter adds a unique depth of flavor that elevates this dish to the next level.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty rolls for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- A light, crisp white wine complements the richness of the dish.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- For a spicier kick, add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Feel free to substitute the smoked sausage with Italian sausage or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
- If you don’t have cowboy butter, you can make your own blend by combining melted butter with garlic powder, dried parsley, paprika, and lemon zest.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 635 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
The Cowboy Butter Cheesy Chicken & Sausage Alfredo Bake is a delectable dish that’s sure to impress. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout recipe that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this bake is a winner!
Q&A About This Recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Penne and rigatoni work well because their ridges hold the sauce, but you can use any medium-sized pasta like rotini, farfalle, or even elbow macaroni.
Q2: What if I don’t have smoked sausage?
A: If you don’t have smoked sausage, you can use Italian sausage, chorizo, or even kielbasa. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the sausage is fully cooked.
Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Q4: Is it possible to make this recipe lighter?
A: To make it lighter, you can use light cream instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese. You could also add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until heated through.
