Easy Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole – A Creamy, Cheesy, and Hearty Comfort Food Favorite

If you’re in the mood for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to throw together, look no further than this Easy Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole! This dish is loaded with tender egg noodles, juicy chicken, a creamy sauce made with cheddar and cream of chicken soup, and topped with a buttery cracker crust that adds the perfect crunch. It’s the ultimate comfort food that combines everything you love about a casserole into one cheesy, delicious meal.

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Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need something to feed the whole family, this casserole is as simple as it is satisfying. The best part? You can make it ahead of time or freeze it for later, making it a go-to for those times when you need a comforting meal in a pinch.

Fun Fact: Casseroles – A History of Comfort

Did you know that casseroles gained popularity in the United States during the 1950s? They became a staple at potlucks and family gatherings thanks to their simplicity and ability to feed a crowd. Over time, casseroles have evolved, and today we enjoy endless variations of this classic comfort dish. Whether it’s topped with cheese, crispy crackers, or breadcrumbs, the casserole is always a hit!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop a portion into the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This casserole also freezes well! Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Cooking Tips

For added flavor, you can swap out the onion powder for fresh sautéed onions. You can also mix in some additional vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutrient boost. Want more crunch? Try topping the casserole with crispy fried onions or even potato chips instead of crackers!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 20g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fiber: 2g

This Easy Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy, making it a hit for both kids and adults alike.

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Easy Cheesy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 12 ounces egg noodles, cooked and drained
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can cheddar cheese soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ tablespoon onion powder
• 3 cups cooked and chopped chicken
• 1 (12-ounce) bag frozen peas and carrots, thawed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping:

• 32 round buttery crackers, one sleeve, crushed
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles:
   Boil the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, heavy cream, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the Chicken and Veggies:
   Gently fold in the cooked egg noodles, chopped chicken, thawed peas and carrots, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   Pour the chicken noodle mixture into the prepared casserole dish and smooth it into an even layer.
6. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix together the crushed crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake the Casserole:
   Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. For a fresh garnish, sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

Optional Variations

You can swap out the chicken for turkey for a Thanksgiving-inspired twist. If you're feeling adventurous, mix in some crispy bacon or ham for extra savory flavor. To make it even creamier, try adding a handful of mozzarella or gouda cheese to the mixture!