Are you ready to indulge in a creamy, cheesy delight that combines the irresistible flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch? Look no further than this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Casserole! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting meal that will warm hearts and satisfy appetites. Dive into our recipe and discover the secret to this mouthwatering casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the 8 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of crumbled bacon, and 1 cup of ranch dressing. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the ranch dressing.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the bowl with the chicken and bacon mixture. Gently fold the pasta in until it is well combined with the other ingredients.
- Next, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of chopped green onions. Mix everything together until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the pasta mixture.
- Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help with even cooking and browning.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the casserole from drying out while it bakes.
- Place the covered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the top to become golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to portion out.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Casserole!
Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: To prevent your pasta from becoming mushy during baking, cook it just until al dente. This will allow it to hold its shape and texture in the casserole.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and shredded, making your prep even quicker!
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, experimenting with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack can add a unique twist to your casserole.
- Baking Dish Tips: Make sure to grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking, and consider using a glass dish for even cooking and easy monitoring of browning.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Flair: Top your casserole with additional chopped green onions or even some crispy fried onions for added texture and a pop of color.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Casserole!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
