Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and flavor, look no further than Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole! This delightful recipe features tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy Alfredo sauce, and cheesy goodness all baked together with pasta. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
A Personal Story Behind My Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Journey
I remember the first time I made Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole for my family. I was slightly nervous as I had never combined these ingredients before, but I was hoping for a positive response. As it baked in the oven, the savory aroma filled my home, and when it finally came out, my family couldn’t wait to dig in. The smiles on their faces and the empty plates told me I had discovered a new family favorite!
What Makes This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe Special?
What sets this casserole apart is its simplicity and the delightful combination of flavors. The rich Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with the ranch seasoning, creating a creamy and zesty flavor profile. The addition of crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that elevates the dish, while the melted mozzarella cheese on top creates a bubbly, golden crust that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables for added nutrition!
The Full Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (such as penne)
- 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
- 1 (15 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and adjust the rack to the top third position.
- Boil salted water in a pot and cook the pasta for 1 minute less than the package instructions. This helps ensure the pasta doesn’t become mushy when baked.
- While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Drain the cooked pasta and place it in a 9×13 casserole dish. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the pasta and sprinkle the ranch seasoning on top. Mix well to coat evenly. Add the cooked chicken and half of the crispy bacon, mixing again to combine all ingredients.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and the remaining bacon for extra crunch.
- Bake uncovered for 15 minutes or until hot and bubbly. For a golden cheese topping, turn on the broiler for a couple of minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is delicious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance your meal. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to add some crunch and freshness. For variations, you can mix in cooked broccoli or peas with the pasta for an extra veggie boost. Additionally, if you’re looking for a bit of heat, try adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Can I use different pasta shapes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as rotini, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 4
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (such as penne)
- 6 strips bacon, cut into small pieces
- 1 jar Alfredo sauce 15 ounce
- 1 packet ranch seasoning 1 ounce
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and adjust the rack to the top third position.
- Boil salted water in a pot and cook the pasta for 1 minute less than the package instructions.
- While the pasta cooks, fry the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Drain the cooked pasta and place it in a 9x13 casserole dish. Pour the Alfredo sauce over the pasta and sprinkle the ranch seasoning on top. Mix well to coat evenly, then add the cooked chicken and half of the bacon. Mix again.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and the remaining bacon.
- Bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes or until hot and bubbly. For a golden cheese topping, broil for a few minutes (watch closely to prevent burning).