Creamy Chicken Ham Pasta Bake

This creamy chicken ham pasta bake combines the comfort of pasta with the richness of a homemade cream sauce, all studded with tender chicken, savory ham, and vibrant broccoli. Whenever my family needs a hearty meal that satisfies everyone at the table, this casserole is my go-to solution for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

I first created this pasta bake when hosting an impromptu dinner party with minimal time to prepare. It was such a hit that guests requested the recipe before leaving, and it has become my signature dish for potlucks and family gatherings ever since.

• Penne pasta: Provides the perfect vessel for capturing the creamy sauce in its ridges and hollow centers
• Broccoli: Adds color, nutrition, and a subtle crunch that balances the creamy elements beautifully
• Butter: Creates the rich foundation for our velvety sauce and adds unmistakable flavor
• Cream of mushroom soup: Offers convenience and depth without hours of simmering
• Sour cream: Brings tanginess that cuts through the richness and creates the signature creamy texture
• Chicken broth: Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency while adding savory flavor
• Dijon mustard: Provides subtle heat and complexity that elevates the entire dish
• Cooked chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and tender texture
• Ham: Adds a salty smoky element that pairs perfectly with the Swiss cheese
• Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and provides that distinctive nutty flavor that makes this dish special

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:

Boil penne pasta according to package directions until just al dente about 9 minutes. Add the broccoli florets during the final 3 to 4 minutes of cooking. This technique streamlines the process and ensures perfectly crisp tender broccoli. Drain thoroughly to prevent a watery casserole.

Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Coat a 9x13 inch casserole dish with nonstick spray ensuring complete coverage on the bottom and sides to prevent sticking. The correct dish size is crucial for proper cooking time and texture.

Create the Creamy Sauce:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the melted butter cream of mushroom soup sour cream chicken broth dijon mustard salt garlic powder and black pepper until perfectly smooth. Take your time here to eliminate any lumps for the silkiest texture. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Combine All Components:

Add the cooked chicken ham drained pasta and broccoli to the sauce. Fold gently to coat every piece without breaking the pasta or crushing the broccoli. Next incorporate the shredded Swiss cheese reserving a small handful for topping if desired. The mixture should look generously sauced as the pasta will absorb some moisture during baking.

Bake to Perfection:

Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish spreading it evenly to the corners. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes which allows the flavors to meld without drying out. Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 more minutes until the center is bubbling and edges are turning golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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The combination of chicken and ham in this recipe was inspired by my grandmother's holiday casseroles. She always believed that doubling the protein made any dish more special and satisfying. When I make this pasta bake now it always brings back memories of her kitchen filled with delicious aromas and the sound of family gathering around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This pasta bake is the perfect make-ahead meal. Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before you plan to bake it, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then proceed with the regular baking instructions, possibly adding an extra 5-10 minutes of covered baking time.

Freezing Instructions

For busy weeknights or emergency meals, this pasta bake is a freezer's best friend. Assemble the casserole completely but do not bake. Cover tightly with a layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight before baking according to the original instructions. The texture remains remarkably creamy even after freezing.

Customization Options

One of the best qualities of this recipe is its versatility. Try swapping the penne for farfalle, rotini, or even shells. Not a fan of broccoli? Substitute frozen peas, asparagus tips, or spinach. The cream of mushroom soup can be replaced with cream of chicken or even cream of celery for different flavor profiles. For a stronger cheese presence, add a half cup of shredded Gruyère or sharp cheddar to the Swiss. The foundation stays the same, but you can easily make it your own.

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Serving Suggestions

This hearty pasta bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a complete meal, serve alongside garlic bread or crusty French bread for soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce. If serving for company, a chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy flavors perfectly. For a more casual family dinner, sparkling water with lemon provides a refreshing contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other short pastas like fusilli, rotini, or rigatoni. Just ensure you cook them al dente before baking.

→ Can I replace cream of mushroom soup?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom if preferred, or even make a homemade cream sauce.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months before baking. Be sure to defrost completely before baking for the best results.

→ What cheese works best in this dish?

Swiss cheese is recommended for its mild and creamy flavor, but you can experiment with mozzarella or gouda for a different taste.

→ How do I avoid overcooking the broccoli?

To prevent overcooking, add the broccoli florets to the pasta water in the last 3 to 4 minutes of boiling time, ensuring they remain tender-crisp.