Few dishes can match the universal appeal of a hearty pasta casserole. Our Baked Bacon Ranch Chicken and Pasta recipe combines the creamy richness of ranch dressing, the savory allure of bacon, and the comforting taste of chicken in one delicious meal. This dish draws inspiration from classic American flavors, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients to ensure you have everything you need:
- Pasta: 12 oz of your choice (penne or rotini work best)
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Bacon: 8 slices, cooked and crumbled
- Ranch Dressing: 1 cup
- Alfredo Sauce: 1 jar (15 oz)
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Parsley: Fresh, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions for a delicious Baked Bacon Ranch Chicken and Pasta.
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add a pinch of salt and your chosen pasta to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season Chicken: Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, Alfredo sauce, half of the cheddar cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until well mixed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
Step 4: Bake
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your Baked Bacon Ranch Chicken and Pasta!
Tips and Variations
- Pasta Choice: Feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Shells and fusilli also work well in this recipe.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and bacon for a vegetarian version, and add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy twist.
- Lighter Version: Use turkey bacon and low-fat cheese to reduce the calorie count while maintaining flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for a stress-free meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
This Baked Bacon Ranch Chicken and Pasta recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please everyone at the table. Its rich and creamy sauce, complemented by crispy bacon and tender chicken, makes for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
We hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious pasta casserole. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and let us know if you tried any variations. For more tasty recipes, subscribe to our newsletter and explore other recipes like Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole or Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta on our website, easycrispyrecipes.com..