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Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 55 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This creamy and comforting Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is an easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Featuring tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, rich Alfredo sauce, and a zesty ranch seasoning, all layered with pasta and melted mozzarella cheese, this casserole delivers a delicious flavor combination that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces uncooked penne pasta

Meat & Cheese

  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon, cut into small pieces
  • 2 cups cooked or rotisserie chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Sauce & Seasoning

  • 1 (15 ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
  • 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the upper third of the oven to ensure even cooking and optimal melting.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for one minute less than the package instructions to keep the pasta firm for baking. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  3. Cook the Bacon: While the pasta is cooking, cut the bacon into small pieces using kitchen shears or a knife. Fry the bacon pieces in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the pasta and sprinkle the ranch seasoning packet on top. Toss gently to evenly coat the pasta with sauce and seasoning.
  5. Add Chicken and Bacon: Fold in the shredded cooked chicken and half of the cooked bacon pieces into the pasta mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
  6. Assemble the Casserole: Spread the mixture into an even layer in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then evenly distribute the remaining bacon pieces on the cheese layer.
  7. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout.
  8. Optional Broil: For a golden browned cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Notes

  • Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds extra flavor.
  • Be careful not to overcook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or ziti.
  • Broiling is optional but adds a nice crispy cheese crust.
  • Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Find it online: https://emilyquickdinners.com/chicken-bacon-ranch-casserole-recipe/