What Is Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, egg noodles, and a rich sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole is as satisfying as it is easy to make. It earns the “million-dollar” title for its luxurious flavor and crowd-pleasing appeal.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe 🍗🍝
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for topping)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Effortless Prep: This casserole is easy to assemble with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The combination of cream soups, sour cream, and cottage cheese ensures every bite is indulgent.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, comforting flavors.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions 🥘
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
3. Mix and Assemble
Add the cooked egg noodles and shredded chicken to the sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together to ensure the noodles and chicken are fully coated.
4. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. If desired, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top for a crispy topping. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers optional
- 2 tbsp melted butter optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Add the cooked noodles and shredded chicken to the bowl and fold gently to coat evenly.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Transfer the mixture to the dish and spread evenly. If desired, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Customizations and Variations 🌟
- Protein Swap: Use turkey, ham, or ground beef instead of chicken.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free egg noodles and ensure the soups are gluten-free.
- Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for an even cheesier casserole.
Pro Tips for the Best Results ⭐
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for added flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Topping: The buttery cracker topping adds a delightful crunch that balances the creamy filling.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a heartier option.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and comforting lunch.
FAQs about Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enhancements
- External Link: Learn more about the benefits of casseroles here.
- Internal Link: Explore more comfort food recipes on our website.
