Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake - Cozy Family Favorite

A satisfying Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Cooling Time 5

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta Fits perfectly in the baking dish and holds the creamy sauce well.

For the Chicken and Bacon

2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced A great source of protein; using rotisserie chicken saves time.
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled Offers that smoky flavor and crunchy texture; turkey bacon is a lighter option.

For the Cheese Sauce

1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Melts to create that gooey goodness in your bake; consider blending with cheddar for extra flavor.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Adds a sharp, rich flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish.
2 cups heavy cream Ensures a luxurious, rich sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter touch.
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix Infuses the dish with zesty ranch flavor; feel free to use homemade ranch for a customized kick.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter Enhances the sauce's richness; olive oil can be a healthy alternative.

For Garnishing

0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley Brightens up the dish with freshness and color; chives are a lovely substitution.
Salt and black pepper Essential to enhance and balance all the comforting flavors.

Equipment

9x13-inch baking dish
large pot
large skillet

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add 12 oz of penne pasta, and cook until al dente.
Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet, then add 2 cups of heavy cream and whisk in a packet of ranch seasoning mix.
Once thickened, mix in 2 cups of diced cooked chicken and 6 slices of crumbled bacon, followed by half of your cheeses.
Fold in the drained penne pasta and season with salt and black pepper.
Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Top with remaining cheeses and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let cool for a few minutes and optionally garnish with 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 28gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 500mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Cook the penne until just al dente to avoid mushiness. For leftovers, add a splash of milk while reheating. Freeze after cooling and use plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.

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