A dish that embodies pure, unadulterated comfort, a culinary hug in casserole form. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella) is exactly that – a symphony of creamy textures and savory flavors designed to soothe your soul and satisfy your cravings. Envision a warm, bubbling bake, its surface adorned with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping, hinting at the deliciousness within. As you delve in, you’ll discover layers of tender chicken and flavorful turkey, embraced by a rich, velvety cheese sauce that’s both decadent and utterly comforting. The aroma alone, a blend of melting cheese, savory poultry, and subtle spices, is enough to evoke feelings of warmth and home-cooked goodness. This casserole isn’t about fancy techniques or complicated steps; it’s about simple ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s deeply satisfying and effortlessly enjoyable. It’s the perfect embodiment of comfort food, reimagined for easy sharing and guaranteed to bring smiles to every face around the table. Get ready to experience pure culinary contentment with this incredibly delicious and easy-to-make casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Classic Flavors, Effortless Casserole Form:

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella) masterfully captures the beloved flavors of classic Chicken Cordon Bleu – the savory chicken, the flavorful turkey, the creamy cheese – and transforms them into a simple, fuss-free casserole. You get all the deliciousness without the need for individual chicken preparations, pounding, or stuffing. It’s a brilliant shortcut that delivers the same satisfying taste in a fraction of the time and effort, making it perfect for busy cooks who still crave gourmet flavors.

Maximum Flavor, Minimal Fuss, Perfect for Weeknights:

This recipe is designed for weeknight wins. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella) requires minimal hands-on time and uses readily available ingredients. The straightforward steps ensure that even novice cooks can achieve impressive results without stress. It’s the ideal solution for those evenings when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Flavorful, comforting, and easy – it’s the trifecta of weeknight dinner perfection.

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort for Gatherings and Potlucks:

Need a dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next potluck or family gathering? Look no further. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella) is a universally loved comfort food that appeals to all ages. Its creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors are undeniably crowd-pleasing, and the casserole format makes it perfect for serving a larger group. Prepare to be the star of the potluck with this dish – it’s sure to disappear quickly and leave everyone wanting more.

Adaptable to Your Preferences and Pantry Staples:

Flexibility is key in any great recipe, and this casserole offers plenty of room for customization. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella) is easily adaptable to your preferred cheeses, vegetables, and even pasta types. You can use what you have on hand, swap ingredients based on your family’s tastes, and create variations that are uniquely your own. It’s a recipe that empowers you to be creative and make it truly your own signature dish.

Warm, Cheesy, and Utterly Satisfying Textures:

Beyond the delicious flavors, this casserole is a textural delight. The creamy sauce coats every strand of pasta and piece of meat, creating a luscious, velvety base. The melted mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy pull that’s simply irresistible, while the crispy breadcrumb topping provides a satisfying crunch in every bite. It’s a symphony of textures – creamy, cheesy, and crispy – that elevates the entire eating experience and makes each mouthful incredibly satisfying.

this …

Ingredients

For the Velvety Cheese Sauce Foundation:

• 1 lb (approximately 450g) Cavatappi Pasta or similar pasta shape: Cavatappi pasta, with its spiral shape and ridges, is excellent for capturing and holding onto creamy sauces. Other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or medium shells would also work well.
• 3 tablespoons (approximately 45ml) Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil, with its neutral flavor and high smoke point, is ideal for sautéing the aromatics without overpowering their delicate flavors. Canola or corn oil are suitable alternatives.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely diced: Yellow onion forms the aromatic base of the casserole sauce, adding a savory sweetness and depth of flavor. Finely dicing ensures it cooks down evenly and blends seamlessly into the sauce.
• 3 cloves Garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for infusing the sauce with its signature pungent and aromatic flavor. Mincing it finely maximizes flavor release and ensures even distribution.
• ½ cup (approximately 60g) All-Purpose Flour: Flour acts as a thickening agent for the creamy sauce, creating a velvety smooth and luscious texture. Ensure it is all-purpose flour for optimal thickening.
• 5 cups (approximately 1200ml) Milk: Milk forms the liquid base of the creamy sauce, contributing to its overall volume and richness. Whole milk is recommended for the richest and creamiest results, but 2% milk can also be used for a slightly lighter option.
• 6 oz (approximately 170g) Cream Cheese, softened: Cream cheese is the key ingredient for achieving an extra decadent and creamy sauce. Softening it beforehand ensures it melts smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
• 1 teaspoon Mustard Powder: Mustard powder adds a subtle tanginess and depth of flavor that complements the creamy sauce and savory meats, enhancing the overall complexity of the dish. Dijon mustard can be used as a substitute, added after the sauce is thickened.
• ¾ teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning the sauce and bringing out all the flavors. Adjust to your taste, considering the saltiness of the cheese and other ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon White Pepper: White pepper adds a subtle warmth and delicate spice that is often preferred in cream sauces for its less pronounced flavor compared to black pepper. Black pepper can be substituted if white pepper is unavailable.

For the Savory Chicken and Turkey Medley:

• 1.25 lbs (approximately 570g) Cooked Chicken Breast, shredded: Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken, significantly simplifies the recipe. Shredding ensures even distribution and easy incorporation into the casserole.
• 12 oz (approximately 340g) Cooked Turkey Breast, diced: Cooked turkey breast adds another layer of savory flavor and protein, creating a richer and more complex taste profile. Deli turkey or leftover roasted turkey are convenient options.
• 6 oz (approximately 170g) Permissible Chicken or Turkey Roll, diced: This ingredient adds a savory, slightly processed meat element that mimics the traditional ham in Chicken Cordon Bleu, while remaining permissible. Ensure it is a permissible type without any haram ingredients.
• 1 ½ cups (approximately 225g) Frozen Peas: Frozen peas add sweetness, a vibrant green color, and a tender texture to the dish. Adding them frozen towards the end of cooking ensures they retain their bright color and don’t become mushy.

For the Golden and Crisp Cheese Topping:

• 2 ½ cups (approximately 250g) Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is chosen for its excellent melting properties and mild, milky flavor. It creates a generous, gooey cheese topping that perfectly complements the savory casserole filling.
• ¾ cup (approximately 75g) Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are coarser and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in a crispier and more satisfying topping. Regular breadcrumbs can be substituted if panko is unavailable.
• 3 tablespoons (approximately 45g) Melted Butter: Melted butter adds richness and flavor to the breadcrumb topping and helps it to brown and crisp up beautifully in the oven. Unsalted or salted butter can be used, adjusting the salt in the sauce accordingly.

For Optional Fresh Garnish:

• Fresh Chives, chopped: Fresh chives add a delicate oniony flavor and a vibrant green color as a garnish, brightening the dish visually and adding a touch of freshness. Parsley or scallions can be substituted.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole ?

Step 1: Prepare Pasta for Casserole Foundation:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or casserole dish and set aside. Cook cavatappi pasta (or your chosen pasta) according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander and set aside. Cooking pasta al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture in the casserole.

Step 2: Build Flavorful Sauce Base:

Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add finely diced yellow onion and sauté for 6-8 minutes, until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Sautéing these aromatics is crucial for building a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.

Step 3: Create Velvety Cream Cheese Sauce:

Reduce the heat to medium-low and sprinkle all-purpose flour evenly over the sautéed onions and garlic in the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly with a whisk, to create a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and immediately stir in softened cream cheese and mustard powder until completely melted and smooth. Season the creamy sauce with salt and white pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Filling Ingredients for Hearty Casserole:

In a very large bowl, gently combine the cooked and drained pasta, shredded cooked chicken breast, diced cooked turkey breast, diced permissible chicken or turkey roll, and frozen peas. Pour the prepared creamy cheese sauce over the pasta and meat mixture in the bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the luscious cheese sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Top Casserole for Baking:

Pour the combined pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, creating a generous cheese layer. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered panko breadcrumbs evenly over the mozzarella cheese topping, ensuring complete coverage for a crispy crust.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Brown Perfection:

Bake the assembled Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella) in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through, bubbly around the edges, and the breadcrumb topping is beautifully golden brown and crispy. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the depth of the casserole dish.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish Before Serving Warm:

Remove the baked casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the casserole to set slightly and the flavors to meld. Garnish with freshly chopped chives, if desired, for a final touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting and delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella)!

Tips for Variations

Cheese Intensity with Sharp Cheddar or Provolone:

For a bolder cheese flavor, incorporate sharp cheddar cheese or provolone cheese into the cheese topping or the creamy sauce. Substituting a portion of the mozzarella with shredded sharp cheddar will add a tangy and more pronounced cheese flavor, while provolone will contribute a slightly sharper and nuttier note. Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your perfect cheesy blend.

Meat Lover’s Delight with Smoked Turkey or Beef:

Enhance the savory meatiness of the casserole by using smoked turkey breast or adding cooked, diced beef to the filling. Smoked turkey will impart a delicious smoky flavor that complements the chicken and cheese, while beef will add a richer and more robust meat element. Ensure any added meat is cooked and diced before incorporating into the casserole.

Mushroom and Spinach Vegetable Enrichment:

Boost the vegetable content and add earthy flavors by incorporating sautéed mushrooms and wilted spinach into the casserole filling. Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic in Step 2, and stir in wilted spinach (squeezed dry) along with the peas in Step 4. Mushrooms and spinach add nutritional value, texture, and complementary flavors to the dish.

Garlic Herb Breadcrumb Topping Enhancement:

Elevate the breadcrumb topping with garlic and herbs for extra flavor and aroma. Mix minced garlic and dried herbs like Italian seasoning, oregano, or thyme into the panko breadcrumbs before combining them with melted butter. This will create a more fragrant and flavorful crispy topping that complements the savory casserole filling.

Creamy Sauce Depth with Permissible Cream Alternative:

For an even richer and more decadent creamy sauce, substitute a portion of the milk with a permissible cream alternative, such as evaporated milk or a plant-based cream. This substitution will intensify the creaminess of the sauce and add a luxurious texture to the casserole. Be mindful of the richness when adding cream alternatives, and adjust to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette:

Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella) alongside a fresh arugula salad with a light lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula and bright lemon dressing will provide a refreshing and palate-cleansing contrast to the rich and creamy casserole. The salad adds a touch of lightness and freshness to the meal.

Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans with Almonds:

Offer a side of simply steamed broccoli florets or green beans, garnished with toasted almonds. Steamed green vegetables provide a healthy and vibrant side dish that complements the casserole’s richness. Toasted almonds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the vegetables.

Warm Dinner Rolls or Biscuits for Comfort Food Pairing:

Enhance the comfort food experience by serving with warm dinner rolls or fluffy biscuits. Soft dinner rolls or flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce and enjoying alongside the savory casserole. They add an extra layer of comforting carbohydrates to the meal.

Fruit Platter with Berries and Melon for Dessert:

Conclude the meal with a light and refreshing fruit platter featuring seasonal berries and melon. A fruit platter provides a sweet and healthy dessert option that balances the savory richness of the casserole. The natural sweetness and juicy textures of fresh fruits offer a delightful and palate-cleansing finish.

Pickled Vegetables or Relish for Tangy Contrast:

Serve a small dish of pickled vegetables or a tangy relish alongside the casserole to provide a contrasting flavor element. Pickled vegetables like cornichons, gherkins, or a homemade relish will offer a tangy and acidic counterpoint to the creamy richness of the casserole, cutting through the richness and adding a layer of complexity to the meal.

FAQ

Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute cavatappi pasta with other pasta shapes that hold sauce well. Penne, rotini, medium shells, elbow macaroni, or even farfalle (bow tie pasta) are all suitable alternatives. Consider pasta shapes with ridges or curves that can effectively capture the creamy cheese sauce. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta shape, so adjust according to package directions for al dente pasta.

Q: How can I make this casserole lighter in texture?

To lighten the texture of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole (with Turkey and Mozzarella), you can use 2% milk instead of whole milk in the creamy sauce. You can also reduce the amount of cream cheese slightly. Adding more vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, will also contribute to a lighter feel. When reheating leftovers, avoid over-microwaving, as this can sometimes make the sauce texture less appealing.

Q: Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, assembling the casserole ahead of time is a great way to simplify meal preparation. You can assemble the entire casserole, up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature slightly. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.

Q: What’s a good substitute for panko breadcrumbs for the topping?

If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers (like buttery crackers or Ritz crackers), or even crushed permissible potato chips as a topping substitute. For a gluten-free option, consider using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour mixed with melted butter. The key is to use a dry, crumbly topping that will crisp up nicely in the oven and provide a textural contrast to the creamy casserole.

Q: Is it possible to make this casserole without using cream cheese?

While cream cheese contributes significantly to the creamy texture and richness of the sauce, you can make a version of this casserole without it. To do so, increase the amount of flour slightly to ensure the sauce thickens properly with milk alone. You can also add a touch of permissible grated cheese, like Parmesan or a mild cheddar, directly into the sauce for added flavor and creaminess, although the texture will be slightly less rich and velvety compared to using cream cheese.

Print