The Art of Cajun Pasta Perfection

Perfect Chicken Searing

Learn the technique of properly browning seasoned chicken cubes to develop deep caramelization and lock in juices, creating tender protein with restaurant-quality flavor throughout your pasta bake

Cream Sauce Mastery

Master the method of emulsifying cream cheese into heavy cream without lumps, whisking constantly to achieve that silky-smooth, restaurant-style sauce consistency that coats pasta perfectly

Layering for Success

Understand how to properly combine pasta, chicken, and sauce before baking to ensure even distribution and prevent dry spots, while creating the foundation for perfect cheese melting

Cheese Topping Technique

Discover the art of layering three different cheeses strategically to create varied flavor profiles and achieve that coveted golden-brown, bubbly top with stretchy cheese pulls

Baking Precision

Perfect the timing and temperature balance that melts cheese thoroughly while slightly crisping the top edges, and knowing exactly when to remove from oven for ideal sauce thickness

Mastering Your Cajun Pasta Bake Like a Pro

Spice Level Control: Adjust the cayenne pepper from 1/4 teaspoon for mild heat to 1 full teaspoon for extra spicy, and use mild Cajun seasoning if you prefer less heat overall

Pasta Perfection: Cook pasta 1 minute less than package directions since it will continue cooking in the oven, preventing mushy texture in the final bake

Chicken Quality: Use fresh chicken breast rather than frozen for better texture and browning, and cut pieces uniformly for even cooking throughout

Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly with foil, refrigerate, then add 10 extra minutes to baking time when cooking from cold

Cheese Customization: Substitute pepper jack cheese for cheddar to add extra spicy kick, or use Gruyere for a more sophisticated flavor profile

Common Mistake Prevention: Don't skip softening the cream cheese to room temperature beforehand, as cold cream cheese will create lumps in your sauce that won't smooth out easily

Ultimate Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake with Bacon and Three Cheese Blend

Name: Ultimate Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake with Bacon and Three Cheese Blend
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Cajun-American
Ingredients: For the Pasta and Chicken:; 1 pound fusilli pasta, uncooked; 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend, divided; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; For the Cream Sauce:; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed; 1.5 cups heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; For the Cheese Topping:; 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 6 strips bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; For Special Equipment:; Large 9x13 inch baking dish; Large pot for boiling pasta; Large skillet or sauté pan

The ultimate Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake featuring tender seasoned chicken, crispy bacon, and a three-cheese blend. This comfort food masterpiece combines the bold spices of Louisiana Cajun seasoning with the rich creaminess of cream cheese sauce, creating an unforgettable one-pan meal that elevates the classic pasta bake to extraordinary heights perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any time you crave the perfect balance of spicy heat and creamy indulgence.

Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cook Time

30 Minutes

Total Time

45 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Pasta and Chicken:

1 pound fusilli pasta, uncooked

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend, divided

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cream Sauce:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed

1.5 cups heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Cheese Topping:

1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

6 strips bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For Special Equipment:

Large 9x13 inch baking dish

Large pot for boiling pasta

Large skillet or sauté pan

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Cook the fusilli pasta according to package directions until al dente (about 8-9 minutes), drain well, and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.

While pasta cooks, season the cubed chicken breast with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper, tossing to coat evenly.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned chicken pieces, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F), then transfer to a plate.

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, then add heavy cream, chicken broth, and cubed cream cheese.

Whisk the cream sauce constantly for 3-4 minutes until cream cheese is fully melted and sauce becomes smooth and thick, then stir in remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, toss everything together until well coated with sauce, adding reserved pasta water if mixture seems too thick.

Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly, then top with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, distributing evenly across the surface.

Sprinkle the crumbled bacon pieces over the cheese layer, then bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes to allow sauce to thicken, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot with extra Cajun seasoning on the side if desired.

Ultimate Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake with Bacon and Three Cheese Blend

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Cajun Pasta Perfection

Ultimate Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake with Bacon and Three Cheese Blend

Ingredients

Instructions