My Nana’s Trays
The Best Easy Homemade My Nana’s Trays – A Comforting Family Favorite
There’s something undeniably magical about walking into a kitchen filled with the heartwarming scent of My Nana’s Trays. This dish, passed down through generations, captures the essence of home-cooked comfort. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a relaxed weekend gathering, this creamy, flavorful meal brings families together. I can still picture my Nana bustling around the kitchen, her apron slightly flour-specked, a warm smile on her face as she served up generous portions of this delectable dish.
With its luscious texture and rich aromas wafting through the air, My Nana’s Trays is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that cradles the heart and soul. You’ll want to keep this one handy whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd during a special celebration.
Background & Origin
My Nana’s Trays has deep roots in traditional American cuisine, reflecting the simple, wholesome ingredients that were staples in many households. Originally crafted during a time when every meal was a labor of love, this dish speaks to the beauty of home-cooked goodness. Families would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, with My Nana’s Trays at the center of it all.
What’s unique about this version of My Nana’s Trays? It’s all about comfort with a twist! The secret lies in the combination of flavors that not only please your taste buds but also warm your heart. This recipe highlights the beauty of simplicity, using fresh ingredients that make this dish both delicious and approachable.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne works wonderfully)
- 1 cup diced chicken breast (cooked)
- 1 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Helpful Notes:
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Diced chicken can be replaced with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This dish is best when baked to perfection.
In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and milk until smooth. This creamy base will be the heart of My Nana’s Trays.
Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian herbs. Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting for your family’s preference.
Fold in the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Make sure everything is coated evenly — every bite should be delicious!
Transfer this creamy mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and don’t forget to add a little love to those corners.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese on top. This will give your dish a lovely golden crust.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. It’s ok to sneak a peek halfway through!
Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if you like, for a pop of color!
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes
- Enhance Flavor: Adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes can brighten the entire dish!
- Texture Tricks: Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente, as it will cook more while baking.
- What NOT to Do: Avoid cooking the dish at too high a temperature; this can cause the sauces to separate.
- Prep-Ahead Hacks: Assemble the dish the night before, cover, and store in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready!
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegan: Use plant-based cream cheese and chicken substitutes like tempeh or mushrooms.
- Gluten-Free: Swap pasta for gluten-free varieties or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
- Kid-Friendly: Leave out spices or blend in finely chopped veggies to sneak some nutrients in!
- Extra Creamy: Add an extra layer of cream cheese or mix in some sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
To round out a comforting meal, consider serving My Nana’s Trays with a simple side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or garlic bread for that extra boost of flavor. For drinks, a nice white wine like Pinot Grigio complements the creaminess of the dish beautifully. Presentation matters—put your My Nana’s Trays in a pretty dish, and don’t be afraid to top with a sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs before serving.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for about 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving works too but may alter the texture a bit.
- Meal-Prep Tips: Portion out leftovers for easy lunches during the week!
Nutrition & Health Info
Each serving of My Nana’s Trays boasts around 350 calories, with a good amount of protein from the chicken and cheese. For a lighter option, consider chicken substitutes and lighter dairy products. This recipe is comforting yet versatile, making it a fulfilling choice for families on the go!
FAQ Section
- Can I prepare My Nana’s Trays ahead of time? Yes! Assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.
- How do I thicken/thin the sauce? Adding more cream cheese thickens, while a splash of milk can thin it out.
- Ingredient substitutions? Absolutely! Use your favorites wherever you’d like.
- Can I double or halve the recipe? Yes, this dish scales beautifully!
- Best cookware to use? A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly.
- Can I make it dairy-free or meat-free? Yes! Use plant-based alternatives.
- What sides go well with it? A fresh salad or roasted veggies pair wonderfully!
Conclusion
Creating My Nana’s Trays is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about invoking memories and creating new ones. I hope you try this comforting dish and find it as delicious as my family does. Please leave a comment with your thoughts, rate the recipe, or share your variations. Happy cooking, friends!
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My Nana's Trays
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and milk until smooth.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian herbs. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold in the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer this creamy mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
