The ultimate comfort food that clears out the fridge and pleases the crowd
Baked pasta is already a win. But when it’s loaded with juicy chicken, colorful vegetables, and wrapped in a rich Mornay sauce, it becomes a next-level comfort dish you’ll want on repeat. This version checks all the boxes—it’s hearty, creamy, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to throw together. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and pantry staples in a way that feels indulgent but balanced.
Creamy, cheesy, and ready in no time
Here’s how it works: pasta is cooked until al dente, then tossed with sautéed chicken, crispy bacon, and a mix of vegetables like leeks, bell pepper, tomatoes, and spinach. Everything is wrapped in a creamy, tangy Mornay-style sauce made from sour cream, cream, paprika, basil, and tomato paste. A final layer of cheese on top, and it’s ready to bake. Just 15 minutes in the oven turns this dish into bubbling, golden perfection.
Customizable, family-friendly, and totally satisfying
The beauty of this one-dish wonder? You can swap in whatever vegetables you have—broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, or mushrooms all work great. You can even go vegetarian by leaving out the chicken and bacon. It’s the kind of flexible, filling meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights but tasty enough to serve to guests. The leftovers (if there are any) reheat beautifully, making this a true meal prep gem.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? What is Mornay sauce, exactly? Can I freeze the leftovers?
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake an extra 10 minutes if starting from cold.
What is Mornay sauce, exactly?
It’s a creamy béchamel-style sauce enhanced with cheese. In this version, sour cream and grated cheese do the trick.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely. Let the dish cool, portion it into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.