This mushroom macaroni cheese bake recipe is a delightful fusion of creamy pasta and hearty vegetables. It's perfect for those who love comfort food but also seek a good dose of healthy ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and earthy mushrooms enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry staples. However, light cooking cream might not be readily available in everyone's fridge. It is a healthier alternative to heavy cream, imparting the same rich texture with fewer calories. It can be found in the dairy section of most supermarkets. Also, vegetable stock powder is used to enhance the flavor. If you can't find it, you can substitute it with chicken or beef stock powder.
Ingredients for Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake
Macaroni pasta: The base of this dish, it provides a comforting texture and absorbs the flavors of the sauce perfectly.
Onion: Gives a sweet and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Carrot: Adds a hint of sweetness and a nice crunch.
Red capsicum: This brings a vibrant color and a slightly sweet, slightly spicy flavor.
Chicken thigh fillets: They are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Chicken breasts can also be used as a leaner alternative.
Broccoli: This adds a pop of color and extra nutrients.
Mushrooms: They lend an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
Garlic cloves: They infuse the dish with a robust and aromatic flavor.
Light cooking cream: Creates a creamy and velvety sauce without adding too many calories.
Vegetable stock powder: It enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Salt: Adjust to taste.
Parmesan cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds a salty, nutty flavor to the dish.
One reader, Kaitlynn Ashworth says:
This mushroom macaroni cheese bake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy cheese, tender mushrooms, and perfectly cooked pasta is simply divine. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake
How to cook pasta: Boil the pasta in a large saucepan of salted, boiling water following packet directions until tender. Drain the pasta in a colander and pour it into a deep baking dish. Set aside.
How to pan fry vegetables and chicken: In a large and deep frying pan or skillet, pan fry the onion and carrot until the onion is transparent. Then add the chicken, broccoli, and mushrooms, and cook until the chicken has browned and the broccoli has softened slightly.
How to make creamy sauce: Stir through garlic, cooking cream, stock powder, and salt. When the cream begins to simmer, remove from heat and stir through 1/2 cup parmesan cheese.
How to bake the dish: Change the oven setting to grill or broil on medium heat. Sprinkle the pasta and chicken mixture with remaining cheese and place it into the oven to brown on top. When golden on top, remove from the oven and serve.
How To Make Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake Recipe
Give your traditional macaroni recipe a twist with this mushroom macaroni bake made with mushroom and chicken mixed in a creamy Parmesan cheesy sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 17ozmacaroni pasta
- 1onionchopped
- 1carrotwashed, peeled and chopped
- ½red capsicumor bell pepper, washed, seeded, and diced
- 1lbchicken thigh filletsboneless, skinless, cubed
- 1 head of broccoliwashed and cut into florets
- 7ozmushroomswashed
- 2garlic clovesminced or finely chopped
- 500mllight cooking cream
- 2tbspvegetable stock powder(Vegeta)
- saltto season
- ¾cupparmesan cheesegrated and divided
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 390 degrees F.
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Cook pasta in a large saucepan of salted, boiling water, following packet directions until tender. Drain pasta in a colander and pour it into a deep baking dish. Set aside.
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While pasta is boiling, pan fry in a large and deep frying pan or skillet, onion, and carrot until onion is transparent.
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Add the chicken, broccoli, and mushrooms, and cook until chicken has browned and broccoli has softened slightly. Stir through garlic, cooking cream, stock powder, and salt.
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When the cream begins to simmer, remove from heat and stir through 1/2 cup parmesan cheese. Pour Creamy Chicken onto pasta and stir through really well to combine.
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Change oven setting to grill or broil on medium heat. Sprinkle pasta and chicken mixture with remaining cheese, and place into the oven to brown on top.
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When golden on top, remove from oven and serve!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1069.25kcal
- Fat: 65.64g
- Saturated Fat: 38.23g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 19.80g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.45g
- Carbohydrates: 48.93g
- Fiber: 3.72g
- Sugar: 6.14g
- Protein: 70.53g
- Cholesterol: 214.60mg
- Sodium: 2131.29mg
- Calcium: 1841.98mg
- Potassium: 670.15mg
- Iron: 2.77mg
- Vitamin A: 595.21µg
- Vitamin C: 56.43mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake
When preparing the mushroom macaroni cheese bake, it's essential to properly sauté your mushrooms. Start with a hot pan, then add the mushrooms in a single layer without crowding them. This will allow them to brown nicely and release their natural juices, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. Also, remember to add the garlic towards the end of the sautéing process to prevent it from burning and developing a bitter taste. Lastly, when combining the pasta with the creamy chicken mixture, ensure that every piece of pasta is well coated for a uniform and rich flavor in every bite.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Cheesy Mushroom Pasta Bake
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
One-pot wonder: Use a large skillet or pan to cook the entire dish in one go, minimizing clean-up and saving time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and freeze individual servings for quick and easy meals later.
Multitask: While the pasta is boiling, prep the vegetables and chicken to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Use pre-cut ingredients: Opt for pre-cut vegetables or pre-cooked chicken to cut down on prep time.
Substitute Ingredients For Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake Recipe
macaroni pasta - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne pasta has a similar shape and texture, making it a suitable substitute for macaroni in this recipe.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a delicate taste to the dish.
carrot - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potatoes can provide a similar earthy sweetness and texture to the dish.
red capsicum - Substitute with yellow capsicum: Yellow capsicum offers a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color, complementing the dish.
chicken thigh fillets - Substitute with turkey thigh fillets: Turkey thigh fillets can provide a similar juicy and tender texture, adding a delicious twist to the recipe.
broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can offer a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dish while adding a subtle nuttiness.
mushrooms - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can provide a similar earthy flavor and texture, adding a fresh and light element to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient substitute, providing a consistent garlic flavor throughout the dish.
light cooking cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a creamy richness and a hint of sweetness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
vegetable stock powder - Substitute with chicken stock powder: Chicken stock powder can add a savory depth of flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese offers a similar salty and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
Best Way to Present Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake
Elevate the plating: When presenting the mushroom macaroni cheese bake, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the components to create an elegant and sophisticated presentation.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness to the overall presentation.
Opt for elegant serving dishes: Choose serving dishes that complement the upscale nature of the dish. Consider using individual ramekins or elegant ceramic baking dishes for a refined presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the dish is presented with precision and attention to detail.
Consider the use of edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by incorporating delicate and edible flowers as a garnish, adding a visually stunning element to the presentation.
Highlight the golden brown crust: Showcase the beautifully browned top of the macaroni cheese bake by ensuring it is the focal point of the presentation, drawing attention to its irresistible appeal.
Emphasize the layers: If the bake has distinct layers, such as a creamy base and a golden top, highlight these layers by serving the dish in a clear glass dish or by carefully spooning out individual portions to showcase the different components.
Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Mushroom Pasta Bake
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling, stewing, or making sauces.
Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with holes in it used for draining food such as pasta or rice.
Frying pan: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
Skillet: Similar to a frying pan, a skillet has slanted sides and is often used for sautéing and frying.
Baking dish: A deep, oven-safe dish used for baking and roasting dishes such as casseroles and lasagnas.
Grill or broiler: An appliance used for cooking food by applying heat from below or above, often used for browning and crisping dishes.
Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing food.
Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing food.
Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Storing and Freezing Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake: A Guide
Allow the mushroom macaroni cheese bake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled macaroni cheese bake to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to reheat, remove the covering and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
To freeze:
- Portion the cooled macaroni cheese bake into individual servings or freeze the entire dish.
- Wrap the portions or dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the packaging with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to reheat, remove the wrapping and bake the frozen macaroni cheese in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 45-60 minutes. If baking from frozen, you may need to cover the dish with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent excessive browning.
Alternatively, you can thaw the frozen macaroni cheese bake in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This will reduce the reheating time in the oven.
If you have any leftover cooked chicken, mushrooms, or vegetables, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and use them within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
How To Reheat Leftover Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover mushroom macaroni cheese bake to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top layer of cheese.
For a quicker method, use the microwave. Place a portion of the mushroom macaroni cheese bake in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of milk or cream to maintain moisture. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your desired temperature.
If you have a toaster oven, it's perfect for reheating smaller portions. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a serving of the mushroom macaroni cheese bake in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for 8-10 minutes, removing the foil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a crispy top.
For a stovetop method, transfer the leftover mushroom macaroni cheese bake to a saucepan and add a splash of milk or cream. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the dish is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat, as the sauce may break or become grainy.
If you want to add a fresh twist to your leftovers, consider transferring the mushroom macaroni cheese bake to a skillet and topping it with some extra cheese, breadcrumbs, or even a fried egg. Heat the skillet over medium heat until the toppings are melted and the dish is heated through, creating a delicious and unique meal.
Interesting Trivia About Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake
Macaroni cheese bake is a classic comfort food that can be easily customized with different vegetables and proteins.
Is Making Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake at Home Cost-Effective?
This mushroom macaroni cheese bake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, including macaroni pasta, chicken thigh fillets, broccoli, and mushrooms, are reasonably priced and readily available. The use of cooking cream and parmesan cheese adds richness without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is This Cheesy Mushroom Pasta Bake Healthy or Unhealthy?
This mushroom macaroni cheese bake recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like onion, carrot, capsicum, broccoli, and mushrooms, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Chicken thigh fillets are a good source of lean protein. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components, such as a significant amount of light cooking cream and parmesan cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories. The use of pasta also adds a considerable amount of carbohydrates to the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of light cooking cream and replace some of it with low-fat milk or vegetable stock to maintain a creamy texture while cutting down on saturated fat and calories
- Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta to increase the fiber content and provide a slower release of energy
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding more broccoli, mushrooms, or other nutrient-dense options like spinach or zucchini
- Opt for a reduced-fat parmesan cheese or use a smaller amount of a strongly flavored cheese like sharp cheddar to maintain the cheesy taste while reducing the overall fat content
- Consider using skinless chicken breast fillets instead of thigh fillets to further reduce the fat content of the dish
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake Recipe
The combination of tender macaroni, succulent chicken, and earthy mushrooms in a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a delightful and comforting dish. The addition of vegetables like broccoli and capsicum adds a lovely crunch and freshness. The use of garlic and onion enhances the savory flavors, while the parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty finish. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a satisfying and hearty meal. This mushroom macaroni cheese bake is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table.
Enhance Your Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake
Why trust this Mushroom Macaroni Cheese Bake Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of macaroni pasta, tender chicken thigh fillets, and earthy mushrooms, creating a rich and comforting dish. The addition of broccoli and red capsicum infuses vibrant colors and essential nutrients. The creamy texture is achieved with light cooking cream and a touch of parmesan cheese, enhancing the flavors. The use of garlic and onion adds depth, while the vegetable stock powder amplifies the savory notes. This recipe promises a satisfying bake that will surely tantalize your taste buds.
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