Description
This Chicken Noodle Casserole with Broccoli and Cheddar (plant-based) is a wholesome, creamy, and comforting one-dish meal that combines tender shredded chicken, fresh broccoli florets, and smooth plant-based cheddar cheese. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners, this casserole offers a satisfying texture and rich flavors with the convenience of simple ingredients and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 oz egg noodles (or whole wheat/quinoa pasta for variation)
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Dairy and Sauce
- 1 cup plant-based cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 tsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
Other Ingredients
- 3 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Shred cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Blanch broccoli florets briefly in boiling water until just tender to retain their vibrant color and nutrition. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Noodles: Boil egg noodles in salted water following package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.
- Sauté Aromatics and Smoked Turkey Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook until crisp and smoky.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour plant-based milk and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) into the skillet. Gradually sprinkle the natural gelling agent while stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in shredded plant-based cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients and Transfer to Baking Dish: In a large bowl, mix cooked noodles, shredded chicken, blanched broccoli, and creamy sauce until everything is well coated. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading evenly.
- Bake Until Bubbly and Golden: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for about 25 minutes or until bubbly and the top is golden from the melted plant-based cheddar cheese.
Notes
- Cook noodles al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- Do not overcook broccoli; keep it crisp-tender to maintain best bite and color.
- Use freshly shredded plant-based cheddar cheese for better melting and creaminess.
- Let casserole rest briefly after baking to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Double the sauce amount if you prefer a saucier casserole.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: chicken noodle casserole, broccoli, plant-based cheddar, creamy casserole, baked casserole, comfort food, one-dish meal, weeknight dinner
