High Protein Alfredo Bake: Creamy Comfort (Print Version)
High Protein Alfredo Bake delivers creamy, cheesy comfort. Enjoy a satisfying, muscle-building meal perfect for dinner. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Protein Core
01 -
1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
02 -
12 oz protein-enriched penne pasta
→ Velvety Alfredo Elixir
03 -
2 cups heavy cream
04 -
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
05 -
1/4 cup unsalted butter
06 -
4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
07 -
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
08 -
1 tsp Italian seasoning
09 -
1 tsp kosher salt
10 -
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Golden Baked Perfection
11 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
12 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 12 oz protein-enriched penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. This foundational step ensures your High Protein Alfredo Bake: Creamy Comfort Food starts strong.
02 -
Cut 1 and 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1-inch cubes. Season with 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this forms the aromatic base for your creamy Alfredo.
04 -
Pour in 2 cups heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and the remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Whisk until smooth and thickened.
05 -
In a large bowl, combine the cooked 12 oz protein-enriched penne pasta, cooked 1 and 1/2 lbs chicken breast, and the creamy Alfredo sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Transfer this mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. This is the heart of your High Protein Alfredo Bake: Creamy Comfort Food.
06 -
Evenly sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and chicken mixture. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. This creates the perfect golden crust for your High Protein Alfredo Bake: Creamy Comfort Food.
07 -
Remove the High Protein Alfredo Bake: Creamy Comfort Food from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set. Garnish generously with 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for a vibrant finish.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a subtle kick.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore creaminess.
03 -
Feel free to substitute chicken breast with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or use shrimp for a seafood variation. You can also add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies.
04 -
Serve this hearty Alfredo bake with a simple side salad and some crusty garlic bread to complete your comforting meal.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
9x13 inch baking dish
04 -
Whisk
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
07 -
Cutting board
08 -
Chef's knife
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 902 kcal
Total Fat: 53 g
Total Carbohydrate: 42 g
Protein: 66 g