Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet, melt a bit of butter or drizzle some oil. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Lower the heat and stir in:

• Cream soup
• Milk
• Sour cream
• 1½ cups cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese

Mix until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken (or vegetables), and the creamy sauce.
Stir thoroughly so all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Topping

In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese.
Stir until the mixture resembles buttery, golden crumbs.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
Then add the buttery crumb mixture as the final layer.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes.

The casserole is ready when:

• The top is golden and crispy
• The edges are bubbling
• The cheese is fully melted

Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—this helps it set and become even creamier.

Serving Ideas

This casserole is a full meal on its own, but you can pair it with:

• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread
• Steamed vegetables
• Roasted broccoli

It also reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers or weekly meal prep.

Why You’ll Make This Again

Once you taste the rich, cheesy layers and enjoy the ease of assembling it, this dish will become a long-standing family favorite. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or cold nights at home.

Creamy, cheesy, filling—this casserole truly is comfort food made easy.

If you’d like, I can also create:
✅ A printable recipe card
✅ A short version for social media
✅ A variation (Mexican-style, chicken-broccoli, bacon-ranch, etc.)

Just tell me!