❤️ Whenever My Husband Craves This Dish, I Happily Make It, Calling It "Hubby’s Bliss"

Some meals aren’t just food—they’re love served on a plate. In our home, there’s one dish that never fails to light up my husband’s face, make the house smell heavenly, and bring everyone back to the table for seconds (and thirds). I call it “Hubby’s Bliss”, and every time I make it, I’m reminded that comfort food really is the way to the heart.

This dish is a rich and creamy chicken and mushroom pasta bake—the kind that bubbles with cheese, fills the kitchen with garlicky aromas, and makes you feel hugged from the inside. My husband swears it’s the best thing I’ve ever made—and when he gets that craving, I’m more than happy to oblige.

Here’s how I make it, step by step, so you can bring a little bliss into your kitchen, too.

🍽 What Is “Hubby’s Bliss”?

“Hubby’s Bliss” is a comforting, homestyle chicken pasta casserole made with tender shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, a garlic cream sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese. It's hearty, soul-warming, and even better the next day.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the pasta bake:

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)

  • 10 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)

  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the creamy sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided

Optional toppings:

  • Extra mozzarella or cheddar

  • Chopped parsley for garnish

  • Crushed red pepper flakes (for a kick)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente (it will cook more in the oven). Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

Add the garlic and mushrooms, season with salt, pepper, and thyme, and cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens—about 5–6 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup mozzarella, and stir until melted and smooth.

Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. This sauce is the soul of the dish—creamy, savory, and perfect.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pasta, chicken, sautéed mushroom mixture, and cream sauce. Stir gently until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella over the top (or more, if your husband’s a cheese lover like mine!).

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. If you want a crispy cheesy crust, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes—just don’t walk away!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the dish rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and maybe a little love note on the side. ❤️

Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or a glass of wine—and just wait for the compliments to start rolling in.

💬 Why I Call It “Hubby’s Bliss”

There’s just something about this dish. It’s warm, hearty, and flavorful, but more than that—it’s made with intention. It’s one of those meals I reserve for when he’s had a long day, or when I want to say “I love you” without saying a word.

When he smells it in the oven, he knows what’s coming. And every time he takes that first bite, I get the same smile and the same words: “You made my dish.”

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Add spinach or broccoli for a green twist.

  • Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or a touch of hot sauce in the sauce.

  • Use cream cheese for an extra rich sauce.

  • Switch the meat — try shredded turkey or diced ham.

❤️ Final Thoughts

“Hubby’s Bliss” may be simple, but it’s full of heart. It’s proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to make something memorable. Sometimes, all it takes is a little garlic, a lot of cheese, and someone you love to share it with.

If you’re looking for a new signature dish—or something to become your family’s version of comfort food—this recipe might just be it.