When you’re craving a comforting, family-friendly dinner, nothing beats a creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu casserole. It’s the perfect dish to serve on a busy weeknight or when you’re hosting a gathering. This casserole combines the rich flavors of chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and a creamy sauce into a delicious, baked meal that everyone will love.
Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly simple to make, with most of the ingredients likely already in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or ham, making it a time-saving option for meal prep.
Ingredients Overview
Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to prepare this delicious creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu casserole:
- Egg noodles – A sturdy base for your casserole.
- Cooked chicken – Diced or shredded.
- Ham – Cubed for that classic Cordon Bleu flavor.
- Swiss cheese – Melts perfectly into the casserole.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds a crispy, savory topping.
- Cream of chicken soup – Forms the base of the sauce (you can make your own at home).
- Milk and sour cream – To make the sauce extra creamy.
- Butter – For sautéing bread crumbs for the topping.
- Seasoned bread crumbs – Adds a crunchy texture (store-bought or homemade).
How to Make Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginners. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Boil the noodles: Start by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and transfer them to a prepared casserole dish.
- Layer the chicken, ham, and cheese: Add your cooked chicken and ham over the noodles. Layer Swiss cheese on top.
- Make the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, milk, and sour cream. Stir well until smooth.
- Add the sauce: Pour the sauce over the noodle, chicken, and ham mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated.
- Prepare the topping: In a pan, melt butter and stir in the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese until golden and crisp.
- Bake: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu casserole is hard to beat, there are several variations you can try to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Cheese substitutes: Swap out Swiss cheese for mozzarella or Gruyère for a slightly different flavor.
- Meat alternatives: You can substitute the ham with turkey or even make it a vegetarian dish by using plant-based alternatives.
- Gluten-free options: Simply replace the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free bread crumbs for the topping.
- Lower-carb version: Use cauliflower florets instead of noodles to create a low-carb version of this casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu casserole pairs perfectly with light, green sides that contrast the richness of the dish:
- Buttery Garlic Green Beans
- Classic Caesar Salad
- Roasted Garlic Lemon Broccoli
These simple, fresh sides balance the creaminess of the casserole and make the meal complete.
Storage and Freezing Tips
This casserole makes for excellent leftovers and can be easily stored:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: If you want to make it ahead, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Casserole
To make sure your creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu casserole turns out perfect every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use high-quality Swiss cheese: For the best flavor, avoid pre-shredded cheese, which can sometimes have added starch.
- Toast the bread crumbs: Sauteing the bread crumbs in butter ensures they’ll get crispy on top.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken: If using leftovers, make sure the chicken isn’t overcooked before going into the casserole, as it will cook further in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready. If you freeze it, be sure to thaw it overnight before baking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can swap out the egg noodles for penne or bow-tie pasta if you prefer.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free noodles and substitute gluten-free bread crumbs, similar to those used in squash casserole recipes.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Use low-fat cheese, milk, and cream of chicken soup. You can also add more vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutrient boost.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe and adds even more flavor.
Conclusion
This creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu casserole is an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that offers both flavor and comfort. With simple ingredients and flexible substitutions, it’s a recipe you can adapt to your needs, whether you’re looking for a gluten-free, low-carb, or make-ahead option. The creamy sauce, savory ham, and crispy topping make this a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Try it today and see why it’s a must-have on your dinner rotation!
For more inspiration, check out this guide to making a perfect dessert like vanilla bean cheesecake for a sweet finish to your meal.