Discover the Savory Delight casserole featuring juicy chicken, flavorful sausage, and earthy mushrooms. Perfectly baked for a comforting and hearty meal.
Savory Delight: Hearty Mushroom, Chicken, and Sausage Casserole Bake
If you're on the hunt for a comfort food that embraces rich flavors and fills your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas, look no further. This Hearty Mushroom, Chicken, and Sausage Casserole Bake is a delectable dish perfect for family dinners or any occasion where you need to feed a crowd with minimal fuss. The earthy taste of mushrooms melds beautifully with the seasoned chicken and spicy sausage, providing a satisfying experience for your taste buds. Let's dive into this savory recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a large baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cook the Chicken and Sausage: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and sausage pieces, breaking up the sausage with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Stir frequently until the chicken is cooked through and the sausage is browned, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the chicken and sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and continue to cook until they are browned and their moisture has evaporated, approximately another 5 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly while stirring occasionally. This should take around 3-4 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, sausage, and pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to ensure everything is well coated in the creamy mushroom sauce.
Layer the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Conclusion
This Hearty Mushroom, Chicken, and Sausage Casserole Bake is more than just a meal—it's an invitation to relax and enjoy the comfort of your home with loved ones. Each bite offers a symphony of flavors that symbolize the essence of comforting homemade food. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want to indulge in a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone satisfied. Enjoy!