chicken bacon ranch pasta Recipe
Rich, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta brings together savory bacon, tender chicken, and a creamy, ranch-infused sauce that makes each bite unforgettable. Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear, this dish is ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
With a bubbly, golden top and a creamy sauce base, every forkful brings out the best of these classic flavors. From the tangy ranch dressing to the gooey cheese pull, it’s a comfort food recipe at its finest, delivering both warmth and satisfaction.
Get ready for a dish that combines ease and flavor without compromising on a restaurant-quality experience. This pasta bake comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you still crave something a bit special.
Key Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Cooked, shredded chicken – Adds protein and a tender, juicy texture that pairs perfectly with the pasta.
- Medium pasta noodles, cooked – Provides the base for this dish, soaking up all the creamy, cheesy flavors.
- Ranch dressing mix – Infuses the sauce with a signature tangy, herby flavor, making each bite incredibly delicious.
- Bacon, cooked and chopped – Brings a smoky, savory element, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce and cheese.
- Cheddar cheese, divided – Adds sharpness and depth to the flavor, blending well with mozzarella.
- Mozzarella cheese, divided – Melts beautifully, creating that gooey, stretchy cheese texture we all love.
- Alfredo sauce – Creates a creamy, rich sauce that’s perfect for coating the pasta, chicken, and bacon for ultimate comfort.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Easy Steps to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, salt, pepper, ranch dressing mix, shredded chicken, 1 cup of mozzarella, ½ cup of cheddar, and half of the chopped bacon. Mix thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Pour the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top, then add the remaining bacon for a crunchy, savory topping.
- Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, and the dish is bubbling hot.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the full creamy, cheesy, and savory experience.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor; pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent overcooking during baking. Slightly firm pasta holds up better in the sauce.
- Add extra ranch flavor by mixing in a bit more ranch seasoning to taste if you’re a fan of that classic tang!
- For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo mixture.
Recipe Variations
For a lighter version, swap Alfredo sauce with a homemade yogurt-based ranch sauce. Or, try using turkey bacon for a leaner protein while keeping the same savory crunch. Adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach can add a pop of color and a nutritional boost, too. Serve with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
To keep your pasta fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a small splash of milk or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or oven at 325°F until warmed through.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 baking dish
Zutaten
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 16 oz medium pasta noodles cooked
- 1 oz Ranch dressing mix
- 8 slices bacon cooked and chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese divided
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese divided
- 1 tsp salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups Alfredo sauce
Anleitungen
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with Alfredo sauce, salt, pepper, ranch dressing mix, shredded chicken, 1 cup of mozzarella, 1/2 cup of cheddar, and half of the chopped bacon. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, then sprinkle the remaining bacon pieces over the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese melts fully and the dish is hot and bubbling.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.