Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines comforting pasta with the rich, savory flavors of the classic chicken cordon bleu, you will absolutely fall in love with this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. It’s a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal that brings together tender pasta, a luscious sauce bursting with Dijon mustard and Swiss cheese, and that hint of fresh parsley to brighten each bite. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress loved ones without fussing over complicated steps. Let me walk you through why this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is quickly becoming one of my favorite go-to dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look simple, but they work together in perfect harmony to create an amazingly creamy, flavorful casserole that’s packed with cozy, delicious textures. Each item plays a key role in bringing this dish to life.

• 1 lb cavatappi pasta: The corkscrew shape is perfect for holding onto the rich sauce, making every bite extra creamy.
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup: This adds a velvety base flavored with chicken that makes the casserole wonderfully moist and comforting.
• 2 cups half & half: Used to create that smooth, luscious sauce consistency without being too heavy.
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard: This gives the casserole a subtle tang and depth, elevating the flavor beyond typical creamy dishes.
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a burst of brightness and color to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (e.g., Lawry’s): A perfectly balanced seasoning blend that enhances every ingredient without overpowering.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount of heat to round out the flavors with a gentle kick.
• 3 cups shredded Swiss cheese: The star cheesy ingredient that melts beautifully and lends the casserole its irresistible golden crust and nutty flavor.

How to Make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Cavatappi Pasta

Start by boiling the cavatappi pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. This pasta shape is fantastic for capturing the creamy sauce, so be sure not to overcook it. Once ready, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, half & half, Dijon mustard, seasoned salt, and black pepper until smooth. This combination creates the signature rich and tangy base of the casserole.

Step 3: Combine Pasta with Sauce and Cheese

Add the cooked pasta and 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese into the sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated and starting to get cheesy. This step is where the magic begins, as the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish and Add Topping

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Swiss cheese over the top, which will turn golden and bubbly in the oven, sealing in all that creamy goodness.

Step 5: Bake Until Hot and Bubbling

Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling. Keep an eye on it to get that perfect golden crust on top without burning.

How to Serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a no-brainer for garnishing this casserole. Sprinkle a little more chopped parsley on top just before serving to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the rich, cheesy flavor profile. You can also add a light drizzle of Dijon mustard for extra flavor flair.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines as the star of your meal but pairs wonderfully with crisp, green sides like a fresh garden salad or steamed asparagus. The freshness and crunch add a lovely contrast that makes your meal feel balanced and vibrant. Roasted vegetables with a touch of lemon work beautifully too.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get a little fancier, serve this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in individual ramekins for a more refined, portion-controlled meal. You can also offer it alongside garlic bread or a crusty baguette to mop up every last bit of that creamy sauce—because nothing should go to waste!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole keeps really well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. The flavors tend to deepen after resting, making reheated portions just as enjoyable as fresh.

Freezing

This casserole is freezer-friendly and makes a fantastic meal prep option. Prepare and bake the casserole as directed, then allow it to cool. Wrap it securely in foil and freezer-safe bags. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven to preserve that creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave for a quick fix, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes until heated through. For the best experience, remove the foil during the last few minutes to re-crisp the cheesy top.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?

Absolutely! While cavatappi is ideal for capturing sauce, penne, rotini, or even elbow macaroni will work beautifully. Just choose a pasta that holds sauce well so you don’t miss any of the creamy goodness.

Is it possible to make a lighter version of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole?

Yes. You can substitute half & half with whole milk or use reduced-fat cream of chicken soup. Reducing the cheese slightly or opting for a lower-fat Swiss cheese can also help lighten the dish without sacrificing all the flavor.

Can I add chicken or ham for extra protein?

Definitely! Adding cooked, diced chicken breast or ham will boost the protein factor and bring the casserole even closer to the classic Chicken Cordon Bleu flavor profile. Just fold the meat in with the pasta before baking.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

If Dijon isn’t on hand, spicy brown mustard or yellow mustard will work in a pinch. The flavor will be slightly different, but the mustard’s tangy kick is important in balancing the creamy sauce.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Simply swap out the cavatappi for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free cream of chicken soup. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free canned soups, so just double-check labels to keep it safe.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole feels like a cozy embrace on a plate—comforting, cheesy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or want to impress friends with a fuss-free yet impressive dish, I can’t recommend it enough. Give it a try and get ready to add a new favorite to your recipe collection!

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