Description
This creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and cozy meal that combines tender chicken, smoked turkey bacon, vibrant vegetables, and a rich plant-based cheesy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it delivers warmth, nutrition, and delicious flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked and roughly chopped
- 8 oz egg noodles
Vegetables
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans), steamed or lightly boiled
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Plant-Based Cheesy Sauce
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheesy blend
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Herbs and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Pinch of smoked paprika (for garnish)
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Smoked Turkey Bacon: Cook chicken by poaching or baking, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Cook smoked turkey bacon in a skillet until crispy, then roughly chop for adding to the casserole.
- Cook the Vegetables and Noodles: Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a little oil until soft and fragrant. Meanwhile, boil egg noodles until just al dente. Steam or boil mixed vegetables until tender but still vibrant.
- Make the Creamy Plant-Based Cheesy Sauce: In a saucepan, whisk together plant-based milk with the natural gelling agent and shredded plant-based cheesy blend. Cook slowly, stirring constantly until thickened and smooth. Stir in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine Everything in a Baking Dish: In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, smoked turkey bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, noodles, and vegetables. Pour the creamy cheesy sauce over all ingredients and gently combine until well coated.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use day-old noodles for better sauce absorption without becoming mushy.
- Do not overcook vegetables; keep them crisp-tender for texture contrast.
- Toast smoked turkey bacon and aromatics first to build a deep, rich flavor base.
- Season gradually and taste as you go to balance flavors perfectly.
- Allow casserole to rest after baking to intensify flavors and firm the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Chicken casserole, creamy casserole, plant-based cheesy sauce, smoked turkey bacon, egg noodles, comfort food, gluten-free casserole