Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a winner. Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-flavored sauce, it’s topped with gooey melted cheese and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners, this casserole is easy to make and delivers big on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal prep time, it’s a hassle-free dinner option.
2. Flavorful and Filling: The combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch seasoning is a crowd-pleaser.
3. Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it in advance and bake when ready.
4. Versatile: Pair it with a salad or serve it as a complete meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces.
3. Prepare the Chicken
   • Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or cook and shred your chicken in advance.

Step 2: Make the Ranch Sauce

1. Combine the Base Ingredients
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, sour cream, and softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Season the Sauce
   • Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Mix Everything Together
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, crumbled bacon (reserve a small amount for topping), and the prepared ranch sauce. Stir until well coated.
2. Add Cheese
   • Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
3. Transfer to Casserole Dish
   • Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
4. Top with Cheese and Bacon
   • Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top. Add the reserved crumbled bacon for extra crunch.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the Casserole
   • Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Broil for Extra Golden Brown
   • For a crispy, golden topping, broil on high for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool Slightly
   • Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Garnish
   • Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color.
3. Pair with Sides
   • Serve alongside a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Success

1. Use Quality Ingredients
   • Opt for high-quality ranch dressing and fresh cheeses for the best flavor.
2. Cook Pasta Al Dente
   • Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to soften in the oven.
3. Customize the Cheese
   • Swap out cheddar or mozzarella for Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
4. Make It Lighter
   • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier option.
5. Save Time
   • Use pre-cooked chicken and store-bought ranch seasoning mix to save on prep time.

Variations

1. Spicy Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
   • Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
2. Low-Carb Option
   • Substitute the pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zoodles.
3. Vegetable Additions
   • Toss in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
4. BBQ Twist
   • Mix in a tablespoon of BBQ sauce with the ranch dressing for a smoky flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

1. Side Dishes
   • Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
2. Beverages
   • Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   • Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch dressing is gluten-free.
2. What other meats can I use?
   • Swap chicken for turkey, ham, or even cooked sausage.
3. Can I make this casserole in advance?
   • Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining guests, it’s a dish everyone will adore. With its versatile ingredients and customizable options, you’ll find yourself making this casserole again and again.

Yield: 6

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

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If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that satisfies even the pickiest eaters, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a winner. Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-flavored sauce, it’s topped with gooey melted cheese and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners, this casserole is easy to make and delivers big on flavor.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 8 oz (2 cups) rotini or penne pasta, cooked and drained
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
   
2. Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
   In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, milk, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, and onion powder.
   Mix until smooth and well combined.
   
3. Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
   Add the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, and crumbled bacon to the bowl with the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
   Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
   
4. Step 4: Add the Cheese
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
   
5. Step 5: Bake the Casserole
   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
   
6. Step 6: Garnish and Serve
   Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Notes

Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Add Veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.

Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with cooked cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.