why make this recipe
Crazy Good Casserole is a comforting dish that combines shredded chicken, egg noodles, and creamy sauce, topped with cheese and bacon. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The easy preparation and delicious flavors make it a staple in many homes.
how to make Crazy Good Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded, about 2 large chicken breasts)
- 2 cups egg noodles (uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a dish of similar size.
Cook noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until just al dente. They should be slightly firm since they will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain and set aside.
Make the sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until it’s smooth and creamy.
Assemble casserole: Stir the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon into the sauce mixture. Mix it all together until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer to dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. If you like, garnish with chopped green onions.
how to serve Crazy Good Casserole
Crazy Good Casserole is best served warm. You can pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish also works well with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
how to store Crazy Good Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply ask the oven to warm it up at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
tips to make Crazy Good Casserole
- Use leftover chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.
- Creamy texture: For a creamier texture, you can add an extra splash of milk.
- Pasta alternatives: If you prefer, you can replace egg noodles with other pasta types like fusilli or penne.
variation
You can add vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for a healthier twist. For those who prefer a bit of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and place it in the fridge. Bake it whenever you are ready.Can I freeze Crazy Good Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly and it will last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before baking.Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with cooked vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach, and use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup.
Crazy Good Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a dish of similar size.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Stir the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon into the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top.
- Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.