Broccoli Chicken Casserole

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a blanket of nostalgia, whether you grew up on classic American casseroles or discovered them as an adult trying to feed a family on a busy weeknight. This healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta brings all that same coziness and comfort, but with a wholesome twist that keeps things lighter, fresher, and just as satisfying.

What sets this casserole apart is its real-food ingredients. We’re skipping the processed cream-of-something soups and instead building a velvety, homemade sauce from scratch using chicken broth, milk, garlic, onions, mushrooms, and a touch of flour for thickness. This gives the dish a rich, savory flavor without weighing it down or relying on mystery ingredients you can’t pronounce. And because it uses sharp cheddar cheese, a little goes a long way in delivering that bold, creamy taste we all crave.

Broccoli plays a starring role, adding vibrant color, texture, and a nutritional punch. Combined with tender chunks of cooked chicken and your favorite pasta—whether whole wheat, gluten-free, or traditional—this dish becomes a well-balanced meal in one cozy baking dish. Plus, it’s incredibly flexible. You can switch up the protein, swap out the veggies, or adjust the seasonings based on what you have on hand. That means fewer trips to the store and more chances to clean out your fridge with purpose.

I first made a version of this casserole years ago when I was looking for a way to repurpose leftover rotisserie chicken and broccoli that had been hanging out in the crisper drawer. After a few tweaks and some experimenting, it became a go-to comfort food in our household—one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s both familiar and endlessly adaptable.

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser to serve on a family night or a meal prep champion that reheats beautifully throughout the week, this healthier broccoli chicken casserole checks all the boxes. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and made with real ingredients that nourish you from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta

There are a dozen reasons why this Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation, but let’s start with the basics: it’s simple, it’s nourishing, and it’s incredibly tasty.

First, let’s talk convenience. This Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta uses pantry and fridge staples—pasta, milk, broth, shredded chicken, cheese, and veggies. You don’t need fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients, and the whole thing comes together in about an hour from start to finish. It’s the kind of meal you can whip up even on nights when your energy is low and the temptation to order takeout is strong.

Next, it’s family-friendly. Kids love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor, and adults appreciate that it’s not overly heavy or greasy. It’s hearty enough to feel like comfort food but light enough that you don’t need a nap afterward. If you’ve got picky eaters, you can always blend the sauce to hide the mushrooms or dice the broccoli into smaller pieces—they’ll be too busy devouring it to notice the vegetables.

Another reason to fall in love with this Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta is how customizable it is. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out or swap in something else like zucchini, peas, or spinach. You can change up the protein—try leftover turkey, cooked ground chicken, or even plant-based options like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian twist. The cheese can be adjusted too; go sharp with aged cheddar, or mellow it out with mozzarella or even a blend. And don’t forget the herbs. A little sprinkle of thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor in no time.

But perhaps what makes this Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta truly lovable is the balance it strikes between indulgence and health. You get the comforting satisfaction of a cheesy baked pasta dish, but with the added goodness of lean protein and fiber-packed veggies. The sauce is homemade, meaning you control the sodium and quality of the ingredients.

Whether you’re feeding a family of four or just want delicious leftovers for the week, this broccoli chicken casserole delivers every single time.

Health Benefits Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta  

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta  isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with health benefits that make every creamy bite even more satisfying. It combines lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and a lighter homemade sauce for a dish that nourishes both body and soul.

Let’s start with the broccoli. This cruciferous vegetable is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s loaded with vitamin C, which supports immune function, as well as vitamin K, important for bone health. Broccoli also contains compounds like sulforaphane, which have been studied for their potential cancer-fighting properties. Plus, it’s high in fiber, which supports digestion and helps keep you full for longer.

The chicken brings lean protein to the table, essential for muscle repair, immune health, and overall energy levels. Choosing skinless, boneless chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken helps keep the fat content low while still delivering satisfying flavor and texture. If you’re using leftover chicken, you’re also reducing food waste, which is a win for both your health and the environment.

Next, we’ve got mushrooms and onions in the sauce. Mushrooms are a great source of B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants, while onions contain prebiotics that support healthy gut bacteria. Together, they help create a flavorful base for the sauce without relying on excess sodium or fat.

Speaking of sauce, we skip the canned soup here—no preservatives or hidden additives. Instead, we make a roux with just a little butter or olive oil, flour, milk, and broth. This gives you control over the ingredients and lets you keep the sodium and fat levels in check. By using milk instead of cream and keeping the cheese to a moderate amount, we keep the richness while maintaining a lighter overall dish.

Pasta gives the dish its heartiness, and by choosing whole wheat or gluten-free versions, you can increase fiber or accommodate dietary needs. Whole grain pasta provides complex carbohydrates that give you long-lasting energy without causing blood sugar spikes.

Altogether, this casserole is a balanced meal in a single dish—protein, fiber, healthy fats, and complex carbs, all baked into a cozy, crave-worthy meal that supports your health without sacrificing flavor.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta

One of the best parts about this Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta is how efficient it is in both prep and cooking time. Even if your schedule is packed, you can easily make this on a weeknight or prepare it ahead of time for busy days. Here’s how the breakdown looks:

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Most of that time is hands-off, especially once the casserole is in the oven. While it bakes, you can set the table, toss together a side salad, or just relax with a glass of water and a few deep breaths before dinner.

Servings
This Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pastayields approximately 6 servings, depending on portion size. If you’re feeding a family, it’s plenty for one meal with leftovers for lunch the next day. If you’re cooking for one or two people, it makes fantastic leftovers and reheats like a dream. You can also portion it out into meal prep containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 32 grams

• Carbohydrates: 35 grams

• Dietary Fiber: 5 grams

• Fat: 16 grams

• Saturated Fat: 7 grams

• Sodium: 540 milligrams

• Sugar: 5 grams

These values will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients you use, especially the type of cheese, pasta, and broth. However, compared to traditional casseroles that rely on cream-based canned soups and large amounts of cheese, this version is significantly lighter in calories and sodium while still packing in flavor.

For those tracking macronutrients or working toward specific health goals, this casserole offers a great balance. The protein content makes it filling, the fiber supports digestion, and the moderate fat helps keep you satiated. If you’re looking to reduce the fat content even further, you can use reduced-fat cheese and skip the butter in favor of olive oil or another healthy fat.

Ingredients List Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta

Every ingredient in this healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta has been chosen with both flavor and nutrition in mind. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life, along with a few helpful notes on each component.

Pasta – 8 ounces (about 2 cups dry)
You can use your favorite type of pasta here—penne, rotini, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni work well. Whole wheat or gluten-free varieties are great if you want to add more fiber or avoid gluten. Cook until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.

Broccoli – 1 large head, chopped (or 1 pound frozen florets)
Fresh broccoli adds a great texture and flavor, but frozen works beautifully too. Just be sure to thaw and drain it if using frozen, so the casserole doesn’t get watery.

Chicken – 2 cups cooked and shredded
This is a perfect recipe for using up leftover chicken. You can use baked, grilled, or rotisserie chicken. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing and eating.

Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups shredded, divided
Sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, allowing you to use less while still delivering cheesy goodness. Half will go into the sauce, and the rest will be sprinkled on top for that perfect golden-brown finish.

Mushrooms – 8 ounces baby bella (or white mushrooms), sliced
Mushrooms add a savory depth of flavor and a meaty texture that makes the casserole feel extra hearty. If you’re not a mushroom fan, you can leave them out or substitute another vegetable like zucchini.

Onion – 1 small, finely diced
Adds sweetness and flavor to the sauce base. You can use yellow or white onion depending on what you have.

Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Brings out the flavor in the sauce and ties everything together.

Butter or Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
Used to sauté the vegetables and start the roux for the sauce. Olive oil offers a heart-healthy alternative to butter.

All-Purpose Flour – 2 tablespoons
Helps thicken the sauce. If gluten is a concern, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth – 2 cups
Forms the base of the creamy sauce. Choose low-sodium broth to keep the salt content in check.

Milk – 1 cup (whole, 2%, or dairy-free)
Adds creaminess to the sauce without making it heavy. For dairy-free options, unsweetened almond or oat milk work well.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta

Making this healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta is a straightforward process, and every step builds layers of flavor that truly make this dish shine. Whether you’re a confident home cook or just getting comfortable in the kitchen, you’ll find this process simple, enjoyable, and super rewarding. Let’s walk through the full preparation together with a focus on flavor, texture, and those helpful little tips that make all the difference.

1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

Start by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt—this is your chance to season the pasta from the inside out. Once the water is boiling, add 8 ounces of your chosen pasta. I typically use whole wheat penne or fusilli for extra fiber and structure, but feel free to use gluten-free or traditional pasta depending on your needs.

Cook the pasta just shy of al dente—usually 1 to 2 minutes less than the package recommends. This is key because the pasta will continue cooking in the oven and you don’t want it to turn mushy.

In the last minute of boiling, toss in your broccoli florets. If you’re using fresh broccoli, make sure it’s cut into small, bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly. If you’re using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw it first. Simply add it straight into the pot and let it boil briefly with the pasta. This technique softens the broccoli just enough so it stays vibrant and green in the final bake.

Once the pasta and broccoli are ready, drain them in a colander and rinse briefly with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 1 finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onion begins to soften and turn translucent.

Next, stir in 8 ounces of sliced baby bella mushrooms (also known as cremini mushrooms). Sauté them for another 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and begin to brown. The mushrooms add depth and umami to the dish, creating that earthy backbone that balances the creaminess of the sauce.

Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for just 1 minute more, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. At this point, your kitchen should be smelling pretty amazing.

3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. This forms the base of your roux, which will help thicken the sauce. Let the flour cook for about 1 minute to eliminate any raw taste.

Slowly pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken stock (or vegetable stock if you’re keeping it vegetarian), whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Then add 1 cup of milk—I usually go with 2% for a nice balance of creaminess and lightness, but you can use whatever milk you prefer.

Continue whisking as the mixture begins to thicken. Once it reaches a gentle simmer, stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. The Dijon adds a gentle tang that brings complexity to the sauce without overpowering it.

Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated. The sauce should be smooth, thick, and full of flavor.

4: Combine Everything in a Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F while you bring all the components together.

In a large mixing bowl or directly in your casserole dish (a 9×13-inch baking dish works well), combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, 2 cups of shredded or diced cooked chicken, and your homemade creamy mushroom cheese sauce.

Gently stir everything together until evenly mixed. Make sure the sauce is evenly distributed throughout so that every bite is creamy and flavorful. Smooth out the top and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.

5: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. This first bake helps everything meld together while allowing the top to begin crisping.

After 15 minutes, increase the oven temperature slightly or switch to the broil setting for a few minutes if you’d like a golden, bubbly top. This final step is optional, but it adds a lovely crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Let the casserole rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This gives it time to settle and makes it easier to slice and serve.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta

This Broccoli Chicken Casserole Pasta is an all-in-one meal, which means you don’t have to fuss over sides unless you want to. It’s rich with protein, packed with vegetables, and loaded with flavor. Still, there are some delicious ways to elevate your presentation and make it feel like a full dining experience.

First, consider serving it straight from the casserole dish at the table for a family-style feel. It’s casual, cozy, and invites everyone to dig in. Add a big spoon and let people help themselves to their desired portion.

If you’re hosting or want a more polished presentation, try scooping the casserole into shallow bowls or onto plates and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives. This simple touch adds color and a pop of freshness.

Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the cheese sauce, keeping your palate balanced. A side of roasted carrots or green beans also works well and adds more color and nutrition to the plate.

For a lighter lunch, enjoy a smaller portion of the casserole with a bowl of soup, like a tomato basil or a clear vegetable broth. You can even pack it up in individual containers for meal prep and serve it cold as a pasta salad alternative, although it’s best warmed up.

If you’re entertaining, serve the casserole as part of a buffet with other baked dishes or finger foods. It holds up well on a buffet table and still tastes great as it cools to room temperature.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing this healthier broccoli chicken casserole, you want to complement its creamy richness and hearty texture with sides and drinks that either contrast or enhance those elements.

Let’s start with side dishes. A crisp, acidic salad is always a solid choice. A classic arugula salad with lemon juice, olive oil, and shaved radishes brings brightness and a peppery bite. Or, for a heartier option, go with a quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a red wine vinaigrette. The grains give texture and chew, and the vegetables provide freshness.

Roasted vegetables are another great partner. Think simple roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower. You can roast them with garlic and olive oil until caramelized at the edges, which pairs beautifully with the cheesy goodness of the casserole. If you’re looking for something more filling, garlic bread or whole grain rolls make excellent accompaniments to soak up any extra sauce.

For drinks, stick with light and refreshing beverages. Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber is always a win. If you’re offering juices, try a tart cranberry or pomegranate juice to balance the richness of the casserole.

For tea lovers, green tea with a hint of lemon or a floral white tea adds a calming finish to the meal. If you prefer something with fizz, a lightly sweetened kombucha with notes of ginger or citrus complements the savory profile of the dish well.

When planning your pairings, think about balance. The casserole is creamy and hearty, so lighter, brighter flavors in your sides and drinks will create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this healthier broccoli chicken casserole is how well it stores and reheats. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy weekdays, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd over several days. Here’s how to store it properly, freeze it for future meals, and reheat it without losing that creamy texture or savory flavor.

Storage in the Refrigerator

Once the casserole has cooled to room temperature, cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When stored properly, the flavors continue to develop, making it even more delicious on day two.

Freezing for Later

This casserole freezes beautifully, either before or after baking. If you’re freezing it before baking, assemble everything in a freezer-safe container or disposable aluminum pan, then cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Label it with the date and cooking instructions. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

If you’ve already baked the casserole and want to freeze leftovers, portion it into individual servings or freeze the entire dish. Again, make sure it’s tightly wrapped or stored in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat refrigerated casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. If the casserole seems a bit dry (as baked pasta can be after a day or two), splash a tablespoon or two of milk or broth over the top before covering with foil. This small trick helps revive the creamy texture.

For individual portions, you can use the microwave. Place a slice in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Stir halfway if needed to distribute heat evenly.

When reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Once thawed, bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes. If baking directly from frozen, expect to increase the bake time to about 60 minutes. Again, adding a splash of broth or milk can help keep everything moist and creamy.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Even though this casserole is pretty foolproof, a few small missteps can take it from creamy and comforting to dry or bland. Here’s what to watch out for so your broccoli chicken casserole turns out perfect every time.

1. Overcooking the pasta

This is a big one! Remember, the pasta finishes cooking in the oven, so you want to boil it until it’s just shy of al dente. If you fully cook it beforehand, it can get mushy after baking.

2. Using watery broccoli

Whether you’re using fresh or frozen broccoli, be sure to drain it well. If there’s excess moisture, it’ll water down your sauce and make the casserole soggy instead of creamy. For frozen broccoli, thaw and pat dry. For fresh, give it a good shake after boiling.

3. Skipping the cheese sauce taste-test

Before mixing the sauce with your chicken and pasta, taste it! This is your chance to adjust seasoning, add a pinch more salt or a touch more Dijon if needed. Once it’s baked, you’re locked in.

4. Forgetting to sauté mushrooms and onions long enough

You want those veggies soft, golden, and flavorful—not rubbery or raw-tasting. Let them really cook down before adding the flour to build your roux.

5. Not greasing your baking dish

A light coating of oil or butter helps prevent sticking, especially around the edges where cheese can crisp up. It also makes cleanup so much easier.

6. Overbaking

This casserole only needs about 25 minutes in the oven—15 uncovered, 10 more with cheese. Don’t walk away for too long! Overbaking can dry it out and cause the cheese to go rubbery.

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💡 Pro Tips

Want to take your broccoli chicken casserole from good to totally unforgettable? These tips are your secret weapons for getting the most flavor, the best texture, and maximum meal-prep potential out of every bite.

1. Use rotisserie chicken or leftovers for a fast shortcut

This recipe is a weeknight favorite because you can use pre-cooked chicken. A shredded rotisserie chicken from the store cuts prep time down and adds a nice savory depth of flavor. Bonus: Less cleanup!

2. Add a splash of pasta water to your sauce if it’s too thick

If your cheese sauce feels too thick before mixing it with the pasta, add a few tablespoons of the pasta water you saved from boiling. The starch in it helps create a silky, glossy sauce that clings to the noodles beautifully.

3. Mix up the cheese for a flavor boost

Sharp cheddar is classic, but don’t be afraid to blend it with a little smoked gouda, Monterey jack, or even a bit of Parmesan. Mixing cheeses adds dimension and makes the casserole extra comforting.

4. Toast your breadcrumbs for an optional crunchy topping

Want a little crispy texture? Sprinkle the casserole with a mix of toasted breadcrumbs and grated cheese for the last 10 minutes of baking. It adds a restaurant-style finish without much effort.

5. Meal prep like a champ

Divide the finished casserole into airtight containers and store in the fridge for 3–4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven, and tastes just as good on day three as it did fresh out of the oven.

6. Freeze in portions

This casserole is totally freezer-friendly. Freeze in individual portions so you can reheat a serving at a time. Wrap tightly and label with the date—your future self will thank you!

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Got questions about making this healthier broccoli chicken casserole? You’re not alone! These FAQs cover everything from ingredient swaps to storage tips and beyond.

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Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before adding it to the casserole. Excess water from frozen broccoli can thin out the sauce and affect texture.

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Is there a gluten-free option?

Definitely. Use gluten-free pasta (like chickpea or rice pasta) and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Also, double-check your broth and mustard to ensure they’re gluten-free.

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Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the whole casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5–10 extra minutes to the cook time since it’s going in cold.

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Can I freeze the casserole?

Absolutely. Freeze either as a full casserole (wrapped tightly in foil and plastic wrap) or in individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot throughout.

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What can I substitute for chicken?

You can swap in cooked turkey, ground chicken, tofu, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version. It’s super flexible!

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How do I keep the casserole from drying out?

Make sure your sauce is slightly on the creamy side before baking. Covering it for the first 15 minutes also helps lock in moisture. If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth to keep things nice and creamy.

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Can I add more vegetables?

Go for it! Peas, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini all work beautifully. Just make sure any added veggies are cooked or steamed first to avoid excess moisture.

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🥘 Conclusion & Call to Action 

If you’ve been searching for a cozy, comforting dinner that checks all the boxes—flavorful, hearty, nutritious, and easy to customize—this Healthier Broccoli Chicken Casserole is your answer. It brings that nostalgic casserole goodness you grew up with, but with a lighter, fresher twist thanks to real ingredients and a homemade sauce.

One of my favorite things about this dish? It’s a total blank canvas. You can switch up the protein, toss in whatever veggies you have on hand, or play with different cheeses depending on what’s in your fridge. It’s endlessly flexible, but still feels like a meal you’d crave on a chilly night.

Plus, it’s just so convenient. It’s a dream for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and makes plenty of servings to stretch across a busy week. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or batch-cooking for your future self, this casserole always comes through.

So, if you haven’t made it yet—what are you waiting for? Grab your favorite pasta, raid your veggie drawer, and get that cheese melting. You’re only about 40 minutes away from a homemade dinner that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

When you give it a try, I’d love to see how yours turns out! Tag me on Instagram, drop a comment below with your favorite add-ins, or send it to a friend who needs a little cozy dinner inspiration this week.

Because at the end of the day, comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. And with this healthier casserole on your table, it can even be good for you, too.

Happy cooking! 💛

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