If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that’s equal parts creamy, cheesy, and delightfully nostalgic, look no further than Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole. This classic casserole brings together tender chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a luscious, velvety sauce, all topped with a crunchy, buttery finish. Each bite is pure coziness, making it the kind of dish you’ll crave on chilly nights or anytime you need a little Southern-inspired pick-me-up. It’s a family favorite that’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to share with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole lies in its simple, everyday ingredients. Each one has a job to do—adding creaminess, heartiness, or that irresistible golden crunch on top. Gather these pantry staples and you’re halfway to casserole bliss!
- Cooked chicken: Shredded or diced chicken makes the dish hearty and soaks up all that creamy sauce; rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
- Egg noodles: Tender, wide noodles are perfect for catching every drop of flavor and keep the casserole classic.
- Cream of chicken soup: Gives the casserole its signature creamy base and rich chicken flavor.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Adds earthiness and another layer of creaminess to the sauce.
- Sour cream: Brings a subtle tang and richness that balances the flavors.
- Milk: Loosens the sauce just enough so it’s creamy but not heavy.
- Frozen peas and carrots: Add pops of color, sweetness, and a little veggie goodness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce and gives every bite a gooey, cheesy pull.
- Garlic powder: Brings in a gentle, savory hint that wakes up the sauce.
- Onion powder: Delivers a deep, mellow onion flavor without any chopping.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle warmth.
- Salt: Enhances all the savory flavors and ties everything together.
- Crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs: For that crave-worthy crunchy topping that everyone fights over.
- Melted butter: Helps the topping get golden and extra flavorful.
How to Make Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and grab a trusty 9×13-inch baking dish. Give it a generous coating of nonstick spray or a little swipe of butter. This ensures that every last scoop of Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole comes out easily (and cleanup is a breeze!).
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and you have a gloriously creamy, fragrant base. This is where the magic starts!
Step 3: Add Chicken, Veggies, and Cheese
Next, fold in the cooked chicken, thawed peas and carrots, and shredded cheddar cheese. Give it all a good stir, making sure every bite will have a bit of chicken, veggie, and cheesy goodness. You’ll see the colors and textures come together beautifully.
Step 4: Fold in the Noodles
Gently add your cooked and drained egg noodles. Use a spatula or big spoon to fold them in so they’re evenly coated but not broken up. The noodles should be bathed in that velvety sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Smooth the top with your spatula so the casserole bakes up with a nice, level surface—perfect for that all-important crunchy topping.
Step 6: Top with Buttery Crunch
In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole, covering every inch. This is your ticket to that golden, irresistible finish!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. You’re looking for a bubbling, hot center and a topping that’s beautifully golden brown. Let it cool for just five minutes out of the oven—this makes it easier to serve and lets the flavors settle in.
How to Serve Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Garnishes
Top each serving of Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a little extra shredded cheddar cheese for color and a pop of fresh flavor. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or even some sliced green onions can take the presentation from homey to downright irresistible.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own, but it also loves a good sidekick. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, some roasted green beans, or classic steamed broccoli for balance. Warm dinner rolls or a slice of crusty bread are also perfect for soaking up any of that creamy sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole in individual ramekins for personal servings—kids and adults alike will love their own mini casserole! Or, scoop the casserole onto a platter and scatter with extra herbs and a few lemon zest curls for a dinner party-worthy presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole store beautifully. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers, then refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors mingle and deepen, making each reheated bite just as delicious as the first.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this casserole is freezer-friendly. Assemble it up to the topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake as directed. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights!
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes. For single servings, the microwave works just fine—just be sure to cover loosely to keep in the moisture. If the topping needs a little extra crunch, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole works well with rotini, penne, or even fusilli. Just be sure to cook your pasta al dente so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.
Is there a way to make it lighter?
You can lighten up the dish by using low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, or swapping in Greek yogurt for some of the sour cream. It’ll still be creamy and comforting, just a little easier on the waistline.
What vegetables can I add or substitute?
Feel free to get creative! Add sautéed mushrooms, chopped broccoli, or even spinach for extra veggies. Just make sure they’re cooked and well-drained so they don’t water down the casserole.
Can I prepare Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole (without the crumb topping), cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping just before you pop it in the oven for best results.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, the casserole isn’t gluten-free due to the noodles and canned soups. However, you can use gluten-free pasta and look for gluten-free condensed soups or make your own. Just check your breadcrumbs or crackers for gluten as well.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a little extra comfort to your dinner table, Dolly’s Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is the answer. It’s a dish that brings people together and never disappoints, with creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen, too!
