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Crockpot Bowtie Casserole

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Cook the bowtie pasta until just shy of al dente. Meanwhile, chop onion, garlic, and vegetables. Shred cheese if not pre-shredded.
  2. 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.
  3. Add Cheese: Top the casserole with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese that will melt and bind the ingredients.
  4. 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.
  5. 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

Keywords: crockpot casserole, bowtie pasta, slow cooker dinner, cheesy casserole, easy comfort food, family meal, make ahead, freezer friendly