If you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than our Love Machine Casserole recipe. This delicious dish combines tender rotisserie chicken, savory bacon, and aromatic garlic with creamy Parmesan sauce, all baked to perfection for a meal that’s sure to warm your heart. Plus, with its easy-to-follow instructions and versatile ingredients, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe, including variations and options for keto and low-carb diets.
Ingredients:
- Meat:
- 1/4 cup Real Bacon crumbles
- 3 cups Cooked Rotisserie chicken
- Produce:
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil
- 5 Garlic cloves
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/4 cup Sundried tomatoes
- 1 medium Yellow onion
- Canned Goods:
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- Pasta & Grains:
- 1 (16 oz) package Frozen Egg noodles
- Baking & Spices:
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- Dairy:
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, diced onion, and sundried tomatoes. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked egg noodles, shredded rotisserie chicken, bacon crumbles, and fresh basil. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Bake: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the casserole and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the foil and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and chicken for a vegetarian version of this casserole. You can add extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute gluten-free pasta for the egg noodles to make this recipe gluten-free.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace Egg Noodles: Use spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles instead of egg noodles to keep the dish keto-friendly.
- Creamy Sauce: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk for a lower-carb option.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use Cauliflower Rice: Swap the egg noodles for cooked cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- Reduce Sundried Tomatoes: Limit the amount of sundried tomatoes or omit them altogether to reduce the carb content further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken? A: Yes, you can use cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs instead of rotisserie chicken. Simply season and cook the chicken before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the casserole is cold when it goes into the oven.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Our Love Machine Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy Parmesan sauce, savory bacon, and tender chicken, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free lifestyle, there are plenty of options to customize this recipe to suit your dietary needs. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of homemade goodness straight from the heart!
