Main CourseOld Fashion Comfort Food: Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole
We all need comfort from time to time, no matter who we are. With the economy being a problem for many of us right now, there has been a rise in the demand for comfort food recipes. And what is more comforting than a casserole of chicken, macaroni, and cheese? That is a combination that will please family members of every age from the youngsters to the grandparents. Even the kids will be on board for this one, so why not try this Cheesy Chicken Macaroni Casserole today? It is not only comforting, it is also easy and inexpensive.
CHEESY CHICKEN MACARONI CASSEROLE
1/2 cup elbow macaroni
1 pkg (10-oz) frozen peas and carrots
2 tbsps butter or margarine
2 tbsps all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp dried basil, crushed
1 1/3 cups milk
1 1/2 cups cubed pasteurized process cheese spread (6 oz)
1 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken (or turkey)
3/4 cup soft bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1 tbsp butter or margarine, melted
Cook macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, place frozen peas and carrots in a colander. Rinse with running water to separate. Set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons butter and stir in the flour and basil. Add the milk. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly. Remove from the heat. Stir in the cheese spread until it is all melted. Stir in the macaroni, peas and carrots, and chicken. Turn into a casserole dish that has been greased. Combine the bread crumbs, almonds, and 1 tablespoon butter; sprinkle over the macaroni mixture. Bake, uncovered, in a 350 degree oven 35 to 40 minutes or until heated through.
Serves 6