Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a rich and indulgent dish that combines all the best flavors in one hearty meal. With tender pasta, savory bacon, and juicy chicken, all smothered in a creamy Alfredo sauce, this casserole is comfort food at its finest.

Topped with melted cheese and a hint of ranch seasoning, it’s perfect for a satisfying dinner that will please the whole family. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

8 oz pasta

1 pan-seared chicken breast (prepared using your preferred method)

8 oz bacon, cubed and cooked

1 1/2 cups shredded cheese, divided

Alfredo Sauce:

4 Tbsp unsalted butter

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

1 Tbsp all-purpose flour

1/4 cup whole milk or 2% milk

1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

2 ½ Tbsp ranch powder

Instructions:

Prepare Oven and Pasta:

Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C).

Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, drain it and cover to keep warm.

Cook Chicken:

Prepare the chicken breast according to your pan-seared recipe. Slice it into thin strips and keep it warm.

Make Alfredo Sauce:

In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and cook the minced garlic until aromatic.

Combine the heavy whipping cream and flour, then gradually add this mixture along with the milk to the skillet. Whisk continuously until smooth.

Incorporate the grated parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and ranch powder. Stir and cook until the sauce has thickened and is well blended.

Assemble Casserole:

In a casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, bacon, Alfredo sauce, and 3/4 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until everything is mixed evenly.

Bake:

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with grated parmesan and freshly chopped herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes:

Pasta Choice: You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or macaroni. Just make sure it’s cooked until al dente to hold up well in the casserole.

Chicken Preparation: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of pan-searing your own chicken breast. Shred or chop it before adding to the casserole.

Bacon: Ensure the bacon is well-cooked and crispy to add texture and flavor to the dish. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Alfredo Sauce: The sauce should be smooth and creamy. If it gets too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more milk.

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, mozzarella, or cheddar can be great additions or substitutes.

Ranch Powder: Adjust the amount of ranch powder based on your taste preference. Adding more will intensify the ranch flavor, while less will keep it more subtle.

Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Freezing: You can also freeze this casserole. Assemble and bake, then let it cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until fully cooked, which might take around 30-45 minutes.

Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Garnishes: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a nice touch of color and freshness when garnished before serving.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or macaroni.

Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the casserole.

Can I substitute the bacon?

If you prefer, you can use turkey bacon, pancetta, or omit it entirely for a lighter version.

You can also use vegetarian bacon if desired.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance.

Assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Bake it from cold, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute other types of cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend.

Just make sure it melts well.

Can I use a store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought Alfredo sauce to save time.

Just heat it according to the package instructions and mix it with the other ingredients.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach can be added to boost the nutritional value and add flavor.

Cook them before mixing them into the casserole.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use any type of milk, including skim, almond, or soy milk.

However, using a lower-fat milk may slightly alter the creaminess of the sauce.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole.

After baking, let it cool completely, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the Alfredo sauce and any other ingredients are gluten-free.

Check the labels of all pre-made items.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta is heated through.

You can also check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) for safety.