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Crispy Dino Nugget Casserole with Cheesy Pasta Layers

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A comforting casserole combining crispy dino-shaped chicken nuggets layered with creamy, cheesy pasta, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • About 20 dino-shaped chicken nuggets (frozen or freshly baked)
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or small shells
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking and stirring until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove sauce from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Mix cooked pasta with cheese sauce until well coated.
  7. Spread half the cheesy pasta in the baking dish. Layer 10 dino nuggets over pasta. Top with remaining pasta mixture.
  8. Arrange remaining 10 nuggets on top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until top is golden and bubbly. Optionally broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispness, watching carefully.
  10. Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

If cheese sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of milk to loosen. Pre-cook nuggets if not pre-cooked. Watch broiling carefully to avoid burning. Rest casserole after baking for best texture. Can substitute gluten-free flour, pasta, and dairy-free cheese for allergen-friendly version.

Nutrition

Keywords: dino nuggets, casserole, cheesy pasta, comfort food, family dinner, easy recipe, kid-friendly

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/crispy-dino-nugget-casserole-with-cheesy-pasta-layers-easy-recipe/