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Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake

Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake for Ultimate Comfort

Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake is a hearty dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta can substitute with any short pasta type
For the Filling
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled turkey bacon is a lighter alternative
For the Cheesy Sauce
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese fresh mozzarella can elevate the flavor
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese consider pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist
  • 2 cups heavy cream half-and-half can lighten things up
  • 1 oz ranch seasoning mix homemade ranch seasoning offers a fresher taste
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter olive oil can be used as a healthier substitute
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley optional, can use chives or basil instead
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the penne pasta, and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 2 cups of heavy cream and ranch seasoning, and whisk continuously for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in the diced chicken and crumbled bacon to the creamy sauce. Add half of the shredded mozzarella and cheddar, mixing until melted and creamy.
  5. Add the cooked penne pasta and fold gently into the mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with remaining cheeses.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Let sit for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 37gSaturated Fat: 19gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 130mgSodium: 980mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Perfect for meal prep and easy reheating. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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