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Italian Penicillin Soup Casserole

Shruthi
This Italian Penicillin Soup Casserole takes all the healing, comforting flavors of the classic soup — chicken, lemon, herbs, and pasta — and turns them into a creamy, cheesy baked dish. It’s cozy, nutritious, and perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 43 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4
Calories 370 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
  • 2 cups cooked small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or small shells)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
  • Saute vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and spinach (or kale). Cook until softened.
  • Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked pasta, sautéed veggies, lemon zest, lemon juice, cream soup, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and half of the cheese. Stir until well combined.
  • Assemble: Pour mixture into the casserole dish and spread evenly.
  • Top: Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
  • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Add extra lemon juice for a brighter, tangier flavor.
  • For a creamy texture, mix in ½ cup of sour cream or ricotta.
  • Substitute cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce if preferred.
  • Try topping with breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan for a crunchy finish.
  • Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld together.
Keyword baked pasta, chicken casserole, classic comfort food, Italian casserole, penicillin soup