Chicken bacon ranch casserole is a delicious and comforting meal that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and gooey cheese. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a hearty and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked and drained
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (2 tablespoons)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15-ounce) jar Alfredo pasta sauce
- 2 cups cooked and chopped chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together the sour cream, ranch dressing mix, minced garlic, black pepper, Alfredo sauce, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently combine the cooked pasta and chopped chicken with the sauce mixture until everything is well coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and the chopped bacon over the top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with nonstick aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight with a side salad or some garlic bread!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use any medium pasta like rotini, fusilli, or macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze chicken bacon ranch casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for Alfredo sauce? A: If you prefer not to use jarred Alfredo sauce, you can make a homemade version by combining 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Cook until thickened and use in place of the jarred sauce.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
This chicken bacon ranch casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!
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