Crockpot Bowtie Casserole
Crockpot Bowtie Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make slow cooker dish combining tender bowtie pasta, a rich blend of cheeses, cooked chicken, creamy soup, and nutritious greens. Perfect for busy nights, it delivers warm, cheesy flavors with minimal effort and is adaptable to various dietary preferences.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Adaptable (Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free options available)
Pasta & Protein
- 8 oz bowtie pasta, partially cooked
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (can substitute turkey or beef)
Dairy & Dairy Substitutes
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 3/4 cup milk or cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach or frozen peas
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook the bowtie pasta until just shy of al dente. Meanwhile, chop onion, garlic, and vegetables. Shred cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Layer the Crockpot: Mix cream of mushroom soup with milk to form a creamy base and spread a thin layer in the slow cooker. Add partially cooked pasta, cooked chicken, garlic, onions, and vegetables. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper evenly over the layers.
- Add Cheese: Top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese that will melt and bind the ingredients.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Check occasionally to ensure casserole is bubbly and pasta tender but not mushy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Gently stir the casserole to mix flavors, then serve hot with preferred garnishes or sides.
Notes
- Partially cook pasta to avoid mushy texture.
- Layer ingredients evenly to ensure balanced flavors in every bite.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley near the end of cooking for brightness.
- Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain steady temperature.
- If using frozen veggies, reduce added liquids slightly to prevent excess moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: crockpot casserole, bowtie pasta, slow cooker dinner, cheesy casserole, easy comfort food, family meal, make ahead, freezer friendly