This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch sauce, and plenty of cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food dish, perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (about 2 chicken breasts)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
This easy-to-follow recipe comes together quickly and is packed with the flavors of bacon, ranch, and cheese that everyone loves.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels.
- Crumble into small pieces and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken (if needed):
- If not using pre-cooked or leftover chicken, cook the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Dice or shred the cooked chicken and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir until smooth and fully combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- Add the shredded chicken, cooked bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cooked pasta to the creamy ranch sauce.
- Stir everything together until the mixture is well coated.
6. Bake:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- If you prefer an extra-cheesy casserole, sprinkle more shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top.
7. Bake for 20-25 Minutes:
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired.
Helpful Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
- Use Pre-Cooked Chicken for Convenience: Rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe and saves time.
- Crispy Bacon is Key: Crisp up the bacon for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to use different cheeses like Monterey Jack or gouda for a unique twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavors. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing in advance for quick weeknight dinners
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes! Assemble the casserole and cover tightly. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready to serve.
2. How do I store leftovers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Absolutely! Any short pasta, like rotini, penne, or fusilli, works well in this casserole.
4. What other toppings can I add?
- You can add sliced green onions, chives, or even diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
- Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole is a quick and satisfying meal packed with classic flavors. With creamy ranch sauce, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it warm and enjoy every comforting bite!