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Loaded Chicken Cordon Bleu Mac and Cheese Bake

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This loaded chicken cordon bleu mac and cheese bake combines creamy mac and cheese with all the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu—tender chicken, savory ham, Swiss and cheddar cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni or cavatappi (or any short pasta)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk (2% works, too)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until just al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream, pouring in a little at a time to avoid lumps.
  5. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in Swiss, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cheese sauce, chicken, and ham. Stir gently until evenly coated.
  8. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
  9. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta mixture.
  10. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling at the edges. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end if a crispier topping is desired.
  11. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese for a creamier sauce. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven. To make ahead, assemble without the breadcrumb topping and refrigerate; add topping just before baking. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken cordon bleu, mac and cheese, casserole, family dinner, comfort food, pasta bake, easy dinner, ham, Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese

Find it online: https://tempotaste.com/loaded-chicken-cordon-bleu-mac-and-cheese-bake-easy-family-dinner-recipe/